Gong Hyo Jin and Lee Min Ho’s highly anticipated drama When the Stars Gossip is facing intense backlash after failing to live up to viewers’ expectations.

In the 8th episode of tvN’s sci-fi romance drama, which aired on January 26th, the story took a bold turn. Eve Kim (played by Gong Hyo Jin) and Gong Ryong (played by Lee Min Ho) confessed their feelings for each other and sought warmth in a tent by removing their clothes, as they waited for a rescue ship in freezing conditions.

During the scene, Gong Ryong admitted to creating a fertilized egg, leading Eve Kim to reassure him, saying, “Don’t give up. Even if we die, the rescue ship will come from Earth. Let’s leave a note as our will, so they can implant it. I hope the baby is born healthy.”

Despite being marketed as Korea’s first space station-themed sci-fi romance with a massive 50-billion-won budget and two of the biggest stars in Korean entertainment, the drama has struggled to capture audiences.

The romance storyline, which begins with Gong Ryong falling for Eve Kim while engaged to another woman, has left viewers unimpressed.

Repeated references to eggs, sperm, uteruses, pregnancy, and other similar themes, paired with underwhelming CGI and direction, have caused frustration among fans.

The ratings started off with promise at 3.3% during the premiere, peaked at 3.9% in episode 2, but dropped to the 2% range by the third episode. By the 5th episode, the ratings sank into the 1% range, and the downward trend hasn’t reversed.

The controversial tent scene in the 8th episode, which included silhouettes of the actors and visual imagery of fertilization and sperm, sparked even more backlash. Many viewers called the scene uncomfortable and awkward, questioning why such a sequence was included.

Online criticism poured in, with comments like, “Why would actors of this caliber agree to this project?” “This drama is such a letdown,” “The production team wasted 50 billion won,” and “How much worse can it get?”

Gong Hyo Jin, known for her consistent success with hit dramas, returned to the small screen after six years, raising expectations for a blockbuster. However, the drama’s lackluster plot and controversial scenes have made viewers question its execution.

With eight episodes still to go, fans are wondering if When the Stars Gossip can recover from its rough start or if it will go down as one of the biggest disappointments in Korean drama history.

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IU has once again warmed hearts with her sweet and caring nature — this time by personally helping young actress Kim Tae Yeon get ready for her very first awards show.

The two actresses both played the same character, Ae Soon, in different stages of life in the Netflix drama "When Life Gives You Tangerines". IU played the adult version while Kim Tae Yeon touched viewers with her emotional performance as young Ae Soon.

Even though Kim Tae Yeon doesn’t have an agency yet, IU made sure the young star wouldn’t be alone. According to insiders, IU personally visited a dress shop with Kim Tae Yeon to help her pick out a beautiful outfit. She even helped with hair and makeup plans, making sure Tae Yeon could shine at the upcoming 61st Baeksang Arts Awards, where both actresses are nominated.

Kim Tae Yeon’s mom posted about the moment on Instagram, saying:

“Tae Yeon met IU unnie and told me to say thank you. Words aren’t enough to express how grateful we are. We were so surprised by her unexpected visit, and her thoughtful care truly touched our hearts. Thank you again to IU for the gift.”

The post also showed a happy Kim Tae Yeon holding IU’s present and choosing a dress — a moment that melted fans’ hearts.

IU is well-known in the industry for her generosity and kindness. While filming "You Have Done Well", she reportedly gave thoughtful gifts and created a warm, friendly vibe on set for everyone, from co-stars to staff.

The drama itself became a big hit, earning praise both in Korea and overseas. IU, Park Bo Gum, Yeom Hye Ran, Choi Dae Hoon, and Kim Tae Yeon all received Baeksang nominations — a huge achievement, especially for the young star.

Kim Tae Yeon, born in 2011, has been acting since she was little and appeared in dramas like Crash Landing on You, A Dog’s Love Today, and Gyeongseong Creature. But her powerful acting in "When Life Gives You Tangerines" truly made people cry, smile, and remember her name.

IU didn’t stop at helping Kim Tae Yeon. She also invited fellow cast members Moon So Ri, Park Hae Joon, Ahn Tae Rin, and more to her concert, sending them gifts to show her love and support.

In an earlier interview, IU talked about giving gifts to so many people. She humbly said,

“As I do more projects, there are more people I’m thankful for, but it’s not as hard as people think. I just hope the people receiving the gifts feel happy.”

Talking about the drama, she added,

“It was such a grand project. Just being part of it was a blessing. It made me think, ‘Ji Eun, you really experienced something amazing.’ I’m grateful I could work with such great people.”

Once again, IU has proved she’s not just a talented singer and actress — she’s also a true “Good Deed Queen.”

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