Kim Min-ha Portrays a Heart-Wrenching Story of Same-sex Love and Conflict in Disney+’s “Light Shop”
Kim Min-ha has deeply moved viewers worldwide with an emotionally charged performance in Disney+’s original series Light Shop. Written by Kang Full and directed by Kim Hee-won, the series tells the story of a mysterious lamp shop that illuminates the end of a dark alley and the enigmatic customers who visit it. Episodes 5 and 6, released on December 11, featured Kim Min-ha’s character, Yoon Sun-hae, in a storyline that struck an emotional chord with audiences.
In Episode 5, Sun-hae confronts intense conflict with her older partner, Hye-won (played by Kim Sun-hwa). Hye-won hesitates to reveal their relationship due to fear of societal judgment and concern for Sun-hae’s well-being. Overwhelmed by frustration and pain, Sun-hae lashes out, asking, “Are you going to keep hiding like this, living in the shadows where no one can see us?” This emotional outburst creates a deep rift between the two.
Episode 6 delves deeper into Sun-hae’s turmoil. Hidden among a rack of clothes under a flickering lightbulb, she recalls fragmented memories of her relationship with Hye-won. As the memories unravel, Sun-hae is consumed by guilt and regret over the harsh words she had said to Hye-won. This culminates in a raw, heart-wrenching moment as Sun-hae collapses, sobbing like a child, leaving viewers deeply moved.
Kim Min-ha’s nuanced performance masterfully captures the emotional complexity of Sun-hae’s character arc, delivering a lasting impression. Particularly gripping was the scene where Sun-hae, overwhelmed by anger and despair, shouts at Hye-won, “Don’t call my name so kindly. Don’t come near me, and don’t even appear in front of my eyes!” The raw intensity of this moment drew viewers into the drama, immersing them in the character’s emotional pain.
Kim Min-ha’s ability to convey such a wide range of emotions has left audiences eagerly anticipating the final two episodes of Light Shop. With only two episodes left in the eight-episode series, fans are curious to see how Sun-hae’s story will unfold.
Light Shop is available to stream every Wednesday on Disney+.
