"When Life Gives You Tangerines" Actress Passes Away Just One Week Before the Show's Premiere

When Life Gives You Tangerines has gained even more appreciation from viewers, as it is the last work of the late actress Kang Myung Joo.

Currently one of the most popular Korean dramas, When Life Gives You Tangerines has drawn attention not only for its main characters but also for its supporting roles. One standout character is the harsh, would-be mother-in-law of Geum Myeong, played by IU.

Unfortunately, the actress portraying this role, Kang Myung Joo, passed away just a week before the show's premiere. On February 27, she died at the age of 54 after a long battle with cancer. Despite her illness, Kang Myung Joo continued to act in the play Bea and the drama When Life Gives You Tangerines, earning praise from critics for her dedication and performance.

Kang Myung Joo began her career in the Korean entertainment industry as a stage actress in 1992. Throughout her career, she made a strong impact with her performances in plays like Coriolanus, Whether Human or God, and Blood and Seed. She also appeared in numerous television dramas and films, leaving her mark in productions like Extraordinary Attorney Woo, Shooting Stars, and her final work, When Life Gives You Tangerines.

Following her passing, her daughter, actress Park Se Young, shared her heartfelt sorrow on social media, saying:
"My mother began a new journey yesterday afternoon. I would be truly grateful if you could always remember my mother — the respected actress Kang Myung Joo — and cherish the stages she loved and the moments when she shone."

Fans and netizens have expressed their deep grief over the sudden loss of the actress. Knowing that When Life Gives You Tangerines is her final performance has made the drama even more special to its viewers.