A jaw-dropping twist in "When the Phone Rings" has left fans on the edge of their seats, as Yoo Yeon Seok's character, Baek Sa Eon, is revealed not to be the biological son of the Baek family.

This revelation, along with high-stakes drama and intense moments, led the MBC Friday-Saturday drama to its highest viewership yet!

The 8th episode, which aired on December 21, brought explosive ratings, reaching a nationwide viewership of 7% and a metropolitan area rating of 6.8%, according to Nielsen Korea. The crucial 2049 demographic, often seen as a key indicator of content popularity, stood at 1.9%.

But what really caught everyone’s attention was a peak rating of 8.5% during a pivotal scene, as Baek Sa Eon presented a chilling video sent by the kidnapper during a live briefing. The tension was palpable as the episode's intense moments kept fans glued to their screens.

Throughout the episode, Sa Eon and Hong Hee Joo (played by Chae Soo Bin) shared some rare, heartfelt moments, giving viewers a brief respite from the mounting tension.

Their deep connection, with Sa Eon taking extra care to protect Hee Joo, brought warmth and comfort to the drama. But it wasn’t long before the kidnapper's terrifying presence loomed even closer, escalating the drama's suspense.

As the mystery of the kidnapper deepens, viewers are also learning about dark secrets that bind Sa Eon’s family. The episode revealed that Sa Eon is not the true son of Baek Ui Yong (played by Yoo Sung Joo) and Shim Gyu Jin (played by Choi Soo Mi).

This bombshell revelation, combined with the growing threats from the mysterious kidnapper, has left audiences stunned and eager for more.

The final moments of the episode left fans in shock as Sa Eon races to a fishing lodge, only to be caught in a deadly explosion. Will he survive? And what does this mean for his identity and his future with Hee Joo?

Social media reactions were full of excitement: “This show has the perfect mix of romance and thrill!”, “The chemistry between Sa Eon and Hee Joo is heart-wrenching.”, “Sang Woo’s character keeps me guessing—so mysterious!”, “Yoo Yeon Seok's performance is phenomenal. He’s the perfect Baek Sa Eon.” and etc.

With the story’s tension continuing to rise, fans can’t wait for Episode 9, airing on December 27 at 9:50 PM. Will the next episode reveal even more shocking truths? Keep watching!

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Lee Kyung Gyu's star-making influence goes beyond Kang Ho Dong, as Hong Jin Kyung shares how he helped her kickstart her career.

On the April 24 episode of KBS 2TV’s Problem Child in House, legendary comedian Lee Kyung Gyu appeared as a guest—and a touching story from the past was revealed.

Hong Jin Kyung surprised everyone when she said, “He’s the teacher for all of us. Personally, he’s the one who helped me debut.” She even pinned a carnation flower on his chest to show her gratitude.

Lee Kyung Gyu smiled and said, “I still remember when Hong Jin Kyung walked up the stairs onto the stage for the first time.”

Hong Jin Kyung then shared her journey to becoming a star. “I joined a supermodel contest, but only the top 3 winners were noticed in broadcasting. I got a special prize, so I had no chance to be on TV."

She continued, "At first, I was just a backup for a show. But somehow, I became a regular the next week. I never knew why."

She added, "I thought the PD gave me a shot. But then one day, I randomly met Kyung Gyu sunbae, and he told me it was actually him who recommended me.”

Kim Sook asked with a smile, “So Kyung Gyu sunbae said nice things about you to the PD?”

Lee Kyung Gyu playfully replied, “Don’t say it in such a childish way,” making everyone laugh.

He then explained more seriously, “The show was Scoop TV Entertainment, and I was pretty much the main MC. When Jin Kyung showed up, I saw her determination and passion."

He added, "While others didn’t seem serious, she really stood out. I told the PD, ‘She seems unique. Why not keep her on the show?’”

Kim Jong Kook chimed in, “So if the main MC said that, doesn’t that mean you basically got her in?”

That made Lee Kyung Gyu happy. He grinned and replied, “Exactly! You speak well. Be like him!”

He added, “After that, Jin Kyung’s career took off. She started doing shows with Lee Young Ja and just kept going.”

Fans are now calling Lee Kyung Gyu not only a top MC, but also a quiet star-maker behind the scenes!

Source: [1]