The 2010 KBS 2TV drama "Cinderella's Sister" resonated with viewers with its unique perspective, unlike the typical Cinderella story. Starring popular actors like Moon Geun-young, Chun Jung-myung, Seo Woo, and Taecyeon, the drama garnered much love for its complex character development and outstanding directing. I worked on the production team for this drama, and due to the extensive filming in rural areas, I lived in the countryside for the entire duration of the production. Perhaps that's why it's so memorable. Let's examine "Cinderella's Sister," which I consider the most memorable drama I've ever worked on, from the synopsis, plot, viewership ratings, characters, popularity factors, memorable lines, and other key features, to explore why it remains a beloved classic.
1. Drama Overview and Plot
"Cinderella's Sister" aired on KBS 2TV from March 31 to June 3, 2010. The 20-episode series, written by Kim Kyu-wan and directed by Kim Young-jo, offers a fresh take on the Cinderella story, narrating the story from the perspective of Cinderella's stepmother's daughter, or "Cinderella's older sister."
The protagonist, Song Eun-jo (Moon Geun-young), has a difficult childhood with her alcoholic mother. One day, her mother remarries a traditional liquor maker, Koo Dae-sung (Kim Kap-soo), and Eun-jo ends up living under the same roof as the bright and innocent Koo Hyo-sun (Seo Woo). Cold and defensive, Eun-jo struggles to accept Hyo-sun's warm heart, leading to constant conflict.
However, over time, the two sisters grow through the complexities of love, friendship, and family. The relationship between Eun-jo, Hyo-sun, and the two men, Ki-hoon (Chun Jung-myung) and Jung-woo (Taecyeon), intertwines love, misunderstanding, and conflict, adding to the drama's tension.
2. Viewership Ratings and Broadcast Reaction
"Cinderella's Sister" achieved high viewership ratings and buzz from the beginning. Its premiere achieved a viewership rating of 15.8%, peaking at over 20%, consistently maintaining its top spot in its time slot. Moon Geun-young's transformation and Seo Woo's multifaceted performance were particularly well-received, enhancing the drama's quality.
Viewer reactions were mixed. While some praised the emotional depth and the excellent portrayal of character psychology, some viewers felt the drama's somewhat heavy plot and static tone were tiring. Overall, however, the drama showcased the true essence of emotional drama and achieved significant success with both critics and the public.
3. Main Character Introductions
- Song Eun-jo (Moon Geun-young) – A cold and wary girl with a deep distrust of love. She possesses a cynical yet deeply emotional side.
- Ku Hyo-sun (Seo Woo) – A bright and innocent girl, she reveals a complex inner self and jealousy over time. A Cinderella-like character.
- Hong Ki-hoon (Chun Jung-myung) – He loves Eun-jo, but struggles with family circumstances and personal wounds. He's a warm-hearted yet deeply wounded character.
- Han Jung-woo (Taecyeon) – He has a crush on Eun-jo and silently watches over her. He's a symbol of pure love.
- Song Kang-sook (Lee Mi-sook) – Eun-jo's mother, possessing a strong survival instinct. While strict with her daughter, she displays a subtle maternal love.
4. Popularity Factors and Characteristics
- A Reversed Perspective Narrative – In traditional Cinderella stories, the stepmother and stepsisters are simply villains. However, this drama tells the story from their perspectives, asking, "Who is truly hurt?" The transformation of Eun-jo, once a sharp and rough character, is compelling and beautiful.
- Emotion-Focused Directing – The plot focuses on the inner lives of the characters rather than on the fast-paced plot, adding emotional depth. The exchanges of glances, restrained dialogue, and silent emotions between the characters resonate deeply.
- The actors shed their image – Moon Geun-young's transformation was a refreshing shock to many, and Seo Woo received rave reviews for her portrayal of both innocence and coolness.
- Music and Visual Beauty – OST ‘The emotional melody of the OST "It Has to Be You" (Yesung) further enhanced the drama's atmosphere, while the visuals' colors and composition also contributed significantly to the film's quality.
5. Memorable Lines
- "Can't you hug me?" – A memorable scene that perfectly captures Eun-jo's loneliness hidden behind her cold exterior.
- "He called out, 'Eun-jo!'" – A scene that reveals Eun-jo's fluttering and desperate heart.
- "My beloved, bad girl!" – Ki-hoon, hurt by Eun-jo's cruel treatment, cannot hide his love for her.
- "What is your dream? Do you practice? Do you work yourself to death? But why are your feet so clean and pretty?" – Song Eun-jo's sharp and powerful remarks directed at Goo Hyo-sun, still frequently used as memes today.
- "Because I'd never called him anything, I cried like a bird, calling my name like a cuckoo's cuckoo, like a ibis's taok taok." – Eun-jo, believing Ki-hoon had abandoned her, sobs and bids farewell to her first love.
6. Review
As mentioned earlier, this drama is one I worked on as a staff member on the production team. Because a makgeolli brewery plays a central role in the drama, I studied makgeolli extensively, and the filming took place primarily in rural areas. Above all, the dialogue was wonderful, not childish but simple yet poetic. The actors' performances were flawless and perfectly harmonious. From the main characters Moon Geun-young, Chun Jung-myung, and Seo Woo to Lee Mi-sook and Kim Kap-soo, who lend their weighty roles, the drama showcases outstanding performances. The drama also showcases the performances of rookies Taecyeon and Yeon Woo-jin. I remember paying particular attention to the direction, ensuring the romance between Ki-hoon and Eun-jo was portrayed with poignancy and without a single overly provocative scene. They even carefully selected locations to capture the beautiful scenery, including the traditional Taoist temple and the surrounding mountain scenery. I heard that the entire temple was later converted into a café. If you're looking for a heartbreaking first love drama, I highly recommend "Cinderella's Sister."
