Netflix’s latest K-Drama hit, Miss Night and Day, has been a whirlwind of laughter, tears, and heartwarming moments, primarily thanks to Lee Mi-Jin's (played by Lee Jung-Eun) portrayal of adulthood struggles.
However, it's not just Mi-Jin who has captured the audience's hearts. Veteran actress Jung Young-joo, who plays her beloved on-screen mother is quickly becoming everyone's favourite K-Drama eomma (mom).
Jung Young-joo Miss Night and Day: The Quintessential K-Drama Mom
You might remember Young-joo as the caring mother in A Good Day to Be a Dog, the strict yet playfully protective parent in Business Proposal, and the loving single mother in Lovely Runner. Now, she shines as the dedicated and endearing mother in Miss Night and Day.
Young-joo brings her signature strict yet loving persona to the role, making her character instantly relatable. Her comedic timing is impeccable in Miss Night and Day, especially when she meets Ji-woong for the first time. She hilariously shifts her attitude upon discovering he is a civil servant—deeming him a perfect match for her daughter.
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One unforgettable moment is when she spies on Mi-Jin and Ji-woong from behind a door, her eyes gleaming with hopes of future grandchildren.
Her character’s instinctive bond with Lim Soon, Min-Jin’s ajumma side, sensing something familiar about her, adds a layer of emotional depth to their relationship.
The Next Generation of ‘National Eomma’
Jung Young-joo is a versatile actress renowned for her roles in both musical theater and K-Dramas. Her repertoire often includes playing the female lead’s mother, a role she has perfected over the years.
Jung Young-joo is carving out a niche for herself as the next generation of "national mother.” She embodies vitality, youthfulness, and strength, portraying moms who are "spicy" and full of attitude.
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Most of her roles feature mothers who aren’t afraid to shout at their children out of love and care. The strong mother-daughter bonds she portrays are always heartwarming, making her characters feel like a part of the audience’s own family.
Going Beyond the Eomma Roles
While Jung Young-joo is a household name for her motherly roles, her talent extends far beyond that. She has starred in acclaimed series like When Flowers Bloom, I Think of the Moon (2021), Badland Hunters (2024), and The Fiery Priest (2019). Her scene-stealing performance in the Netflix film The Wilderness, where she played Bok-bu and had a memorable encounter with Namsan (Ma Dong-seok), showcased her dramatic prowess.
Young-joo’s vocal talents are equally remarkable. She has captivated audiences with her singing on various musicals and the variety show Immortal Songs: Singing the Legend, with each cover going viral for her amazing vocals.
A Hot Eomma at 53
Although she is best known for her motherly roles, Jung Young-joo’s recent public appearances have fans dubbing her a “baddie” and “mother” in the most affectionate sense. At 53, she turned heads at the Lovely Runner Finale Group Viewing Party, where she stunned fans with a form-fitting black dress,.
A fan’s video of her at the event has garnered over 114K views on X (formerly Twitter), with netizens praising her real-life visuals and calling her even more beautiful in person.
Whether she’s making us laugh, cry, or simply fall in love with her motherly charm, she is truly the ultimate K-Drama mom. Her ability to connect with audiences and portray a wide range of emotions ensures that she will remain a favourite for any role she chooses to play next.
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