Sooyoung’s Heartfelt Farewell: ‘Cheers to the Weekend’ Cast Shares Emotional Reflections as the Series Ends

A Bittersweet Goodbye: The End of ‘Cheers to the Weekend’

Did you know that ‘Cheers to the Weekend’ has wrapped up its journey with a touching finale? The tvN Monday-Tuesday drama has been a source of comfort and laughter for many viewers, and as it aired its final episode on June 17, 2025, the main cast came together to share their heartfelt thoughts. Sooyoung, Gong Myung, Kim Sung-ryung, Kim Sang-ho, and Jo Yoon-hee each expressed gratitude and nostalgia, reflecting on the unique warmth and relatability that the series brought to audiences both in Korea and abroad.
Recent articles from outlets like Sports Chosun and JoyNews24 highlight how the cast’s chemistry and the show’s honest depiction of daily struggles made it a standout among 2025 K-dramas. Fans on Naver and Tistory blogs have been sharing their own emotional responses, with many saying the series felt like a comforting friend during tough times.

Sooyoung’s Journey: From High School to Healing

Sooyoung’s portrayal of Han Geum-joo, a seasoned mechanic embarking on her first attempt at sobriety, resonated deeply with viewers. In her closing remarks, Sooyoung shared how special it was to follow a character’s life from high school through adulthood, exploring themes of love, resilience, and personal growth. She especially thanked her co-star Gong Myung for helping bring the beautiful love story to life.
Bloggers have praised Sooyoung’s nuanced acting, noting that her performance gave a realistic voice to those struggling with societal pressures around drinking. International fans, especially on Twitter and Reddit, have highlighted how her journey mirrors the experiences of many young adults worldwide, making the show’s message universally relatable.

Gong Myung and the Power of Support

Gong Myung, who played the steadfast Seo Eui-joon, expressed disbelief that filming had ended, noting how much he grew as an actor through the project. His role as a supportive friend and gentle guide in Geum-joo’s sobriety journey struck a chord with viewers. Recent reviews from 10Asia and OSEN emphasize how Gong Myung’s warm presence provided a sense of stability and hope, both for the character and the audience.
Fans on Tistory and Naver have discussed how Eui-joon’s character challenged traditional notions of masculinity, showing that true strength lies in empathy and understanding. This cultural insight has sparked conversations about changing gender roles in Korean media.

A Mother’s Wisdom: Kim Sung-ryung’s Impact

Kim Sung-ryung, as the matriarch Kim Kwang-ok, delivered a memorable performance that balanced humor and heartfelt advice. Her character’s bold stance against unhealthy drinking habits reflected a growing awareness in Korean society about the dangers of alcohol culture. In her farewell message, Kim hoped that the series would offer comfort and encourage viewers to seek healthier lifestyles.
Bloggers have noted that Kwang-ok’s storyline resonated with many families, especially those grappling with generational differences in attitudes toward drinking. International fans have found her character’s journey both educational and inspiring, providing a window into Korean family dynamics.

Kim Sang-ho and the Joy of Everyday Moments

Playing the lovable father Han Jung-soo, Kim Sang-ho brought warmth and humor to the show. He shared that the lighthearted depiction of family life made filming a joy, and he hoped that viewers would remember the series as a source of happiness. Reviews from StarNews and Hankyung highlight how Jung-soo’s character reminded audiences of the importance of cherishing small, everyday moments.
Many bloggers have commented on how the show’s focus on ordinary joys set it apart from more dramatic K-dramas, making it especially appealing to international viewers looking for comfort and relatability.

Jo Yoon-hee: Sisterhood and Gratitude

Jo Yoon-hee, who played Han Hyun-joo, Geum-joo’s older sister and a mother of twins, expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to work with such a talented cast and director. She emphasized how the collaborative atmosphere allowed her to fully immerse herself in her role. Fans on Naver and Tistory have praised the authentic portrayal of sibling relationships, noting that the sisters’ bond was a highlight of the series.
International audiences have found Hyun-joo’s balancing act between family and personal dreams particularly relatable, sparking discussions about the evolving roles of women in Korean society.

Cultural Insights: Why ‘Cheers to the Weekend’ Resonated Globally

One of the most remarkable aspects of ‘Cheers to the Weekend’ is its honest depiction of Korean drinking culture and the growing movement toward sobriety. The show’s willingness to address social pressures around alcohol, while also celebrating family and healing, has made it a topic of conversation on global platforms like Soompi and KDrama Reddit.
Bloggers have pointed out that the series offers a nuanced look at how Korean society is changing, especially among younger generations who are seeking healthier lifestyles. This cultural context adds depth to the story, making it not just a drama, but a reflection of real-life shifts in values and priorities.

Fan Reactions and Community Buzz

Since the finale aired, online communities have been buzzing with reactions. Fans have shared their favorite moments, emotional scenes, and hopes for a second season. Many have expressed how the show helped them reflect on their own lives and relationships. On Naver blogs, viewers have written about how the series inspired them to reconsider their own drinking habits, while international fans have praised the show’s universal themes of healing and family.
The cast’s heartfelt farewell messages have been widely shared, with Sooyoung’s words about wanting the series to be a comforting presence during difficult times striking a particular chord.

The Legacy of ‘Cheers to the Weekend’

As ‘Cheers to the Weekend’ comes to a close, its impact is likely to linger. The drama’s delicate balance of humor, warmth, and social commentary has set a new standard for slice-of-life K-dramas. For international fans, it offers not only entertainment but also a deeper understanding of contemporary Korean culture and the challenges faced by its youth.
Whether you watched for the relatable characters, the cultural insights, or simply the heartwarming family moments, ‘Cheers to the Weekend’ is a series that will be remembered for years to come.