IU’s Heartwarming Gesture to Child Actor on Set of “When Life Gives You Tangerines” Melts Fans’ Hearts

Beloved singer and actress IU is once again being praised for her genuine warmth and kindness, this time for her touching gestures toward child actor Lee Cheon-moo, who played the younger version of Gwan-sik in the Netflix series “When Life Gives You Tangerines.”

IU’s Heartwarming Gift to Child Actor

On March 27, a video shared by Lee Cheon-moo’s mother on social media captured her son smiling with joy as he held a drone gifted by IU, thanking her sweetly with the words: “Thank you, IU noona!” (“Noona” meaning “older sister” in Korean).

But the drone wasn’t the only gift, IU also included a handwritten letter that touched many with its sincerity and affection. She wrote, “Dear. The cutest in the world, Cheon-moo. Hi Cheon-moo! This is IU ‘auntie.’ We didn’t get to see each other often on set, but every time I did, your adorable self made me so grateful and happy! You worked really hard on a tough filming schedule. Let’s meet again someday on a project where we can act together. Always stay healthy! Thank you, Cheon-moo.”

The gesture warmed the hearts of netizens and fans alike. Lee Cheon-moo’s mother shared, “IU noona is small in stature but a giant at heart. She even remembered to give gifts for Children’s Day and Christmas. We’re learning a lot from her kindness.”

In an earlier post, she had shared a photo of IU with her son and added, “IU is truly an angel. We only saw her briefly, but I could tell how difficult life as a top star must be. Still, she never showed any signs of exhaustion and always greeted us with a smile. She is the definition of a positive influence.”

A Fitting Gesture in a Healing Drama

IU’s gestures come as her Netflix series “When Life Gives You Tangerines” enjoys massive popularity, topping non-English TV charts worldwide. The series tells the deeply emotional story of Ae-soon (played by IU) and Gwan-sik (played by Park Bo-gum), childhood friends growing up on Jeju Island as they experience life and love across the decades.

IU not only stars in the lead role but also plays a second character, Geum-myeong, showcasing her acting range and depth. The show’s final act (Episodes 13–16) was released on March 28, continuing to draw praise for its storytelling and emotional resonance.

While the performances have moved millions, it’s IU’s actions off-screen, especially toward her youngest co-star, that have left an equally lasting impression. As fans have often said, IU isn’t just acting in a healing drama, she’s living one.