Jang Na-ra’s intense performance in Good Partner is deepening viewers’ empathy.
The SBS Friday-Saturday drama Good Partner, set to air on the 6th, is receiving enthusiastic responses for its realistic portrayal of emotions.
The show’s 11th episode saw a remarkable viewership spike, reaching 15.7% in the metropolitan area, 15.4% nationwide, and peaking at 18.9% (according to Nielsen Korea). This solidified its position as the leader in its time slot and among weekly miniseries. Additionally, Good Data Corporation’s FUNdex reported that the series ranked first for three consecutive weeks in TV and TV-OTT comprehensive topicality during the first week of September, continuing to spark widespread discussion.
Central to the acclaim for Good Partner is Jang Na-ra’s performance.
Jang Na-ra plays Cha Eun-kyung, a perfectionist lawyer who struggles with the feeling of inadequacy as a mother. Her portrayal of Cha Eun-kyung’s emotional journey—from a divorce lawyer focused solely on efficiency to a woman grappling with personal betrayal—resonates deeply with viewers. The poignant moment in episode 11, where Cha Eun-kyung expresses her doubts about her importance to her family and work, highlights Jang Na-ra’s ability to convey complex emotions.
A Star Lawyer’s Sincere Struggles
Cha Eun-kyung’s seemingly perfect life, with a devoted husband and a beloved daughter, shatters when her husband, Kim Ji-sang, has an affair with Choi Sa-ra, her long-time secretary. The betrayal cuts deeply, leaving Cha Eun-kyung devastated. Despite the pain, she chooses to remain silent, believing it to be the best way to protect her carefully built life. Jang Na-ra masterfully portrays Cha Eun-kyung’s inner turmoil, from her calm demeanor despite confronting Han Yu-ri’s harsh words to her visible emotional breakdown.
A Bitter Custody Battle
The emotional conflict escalates as Cha Eun-kyung decides to pursue divorce and faces a custody battle for her daughter, Jae-hee. The realization of her shortcomings as a mother adds to her regret. Her candid admission to Han Yu-ri about being an “absentee mother” and her struggle with her daughter’s attachment to her father highlight her profound sense of failure and regret.
Shocking Revelations and Guilt
Cha Eun-kyung’s shock deepens when she learns that her daughter was aware of the affair before she was. Witnessing the affair and seeing her daughter’s ultrasound photo of a half-brother overwhelms her, leading to a powerful outburst of anger and guilt. Jang Na-ra’s portrayal of Cha Eun-kyung’s grief and self-reproach in this moment is strikingly raw and emotional.
Moving On and New Beginnings
Following the custody battle and divorce, Cha Eun-kyung experiences a mix of bitterness and relief. The final moments, where she bids farewell to Kim Ji-sang and reflects on the complexities of divorce, showcase her emotional depth. Her tears in response to Han Yu-ri’s advice to focus on being herself rather than a lawyer or mother reflect a profound sense of loss and introspection. This turning point leaves viewers eager to see how Cha Eun-kyung will navigate her future.
Good Partner’s 12th episode will air on the 6th (Friday) at 10 p.m.
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