In a recent candid talk on her YouTube channel 이지금 (IU Official), IU revealed her emotional connection to the character Ae-soon, whom she portrays in the Netflix original series “When Life Gives You Tangerines” (폭싹 속았수다).
The video, titled “[Mini Palette] Their chemistry is so sweet like chewing ‘GUM’🍊(With Park Bo-gum) Ep.1” and released on March 22, featured IU alongside her co-star Park Bo-gum. During their conversation, Park Bo-gum asked, “Between Ae-soon and Geum-myung, which character do you feel more affection for and want to comfort?”
To this, IU answered without hesitation, “Of course, Ae-soon.” She then elaborated, saying, “I’m both Ae-soon and Geum-myung, aren’t I? I understand Geum-myung too, but when she says something a little harsh, it feels like she’s talking to me and that hurts.”
IU further reflected on Ae-soon’s hardships, stating, “(Ae-soon) went through a lot of sadness from a young age. Her school life, the era she lived in—it was all tough. That’s why I tend to lean more emotionally toward Ae-soon.”
On the other hand, IU plays Ae-soon from her teenage years into her thirties in “When Life Gives You Tangerines”, which has garnered praise for its delicate portrayal of a woman’s life across decades. Acclaimed actress Moon So-ri takes over the role from the character’s 40s onward.
IU’s heartfelt confession highlights her deep emotional investment in both roles and sheds light on the personal resonance she found in Ae-soon’s struggles.
