Second Shot at Love Episode 7: Secrets, Sobriety, and Surging Emotions—Why Everyone’s Talking About This K-Drama

A New Wave in K-Drama: The Rise of Second Shot at Love

Did you know? After a series of lackluster Monday-Tuesday dramas, 'Second Shot at Love' (금주를 부탁해) has become a breath of fresh air for tvN. Premiering after the disappointing performance of 'The Divorce Insurance,' this drama quickly captured the attention of viewers with its unique premise—a romance centered on sobriety. Starring Choi Soo-young as Han Geum-joo, a mechanic who loves to drink, and Gong Myung as Seo Eui-joon, her teetotaler first love, the show explores the challenges and humor of quitting alcohol in a society where drinking is almost a ritual. The drama’s initial ratings already surpassed its predecessor, signaling a strong start and a promising new chapter for the channel.

Episode 7 Recap: Family Tensions and Emotional Confessions

Episode 7 aired on June 2, 2025, and brought a whirlwind of emotions. The episode picks up after Geum-joo’s successful week of sobriety, which earned her the right to ask Eui-joon about his past. Eui-joon’s heartfelt confession—he distanced himself because he liked her too much—awakens old feelings in Geum-joo. But beneath his words lies a deeper secret: Eui-joon once pushed Geum-joo away to protect her from his own troubled family, specifically his estranged father who threatened her safety. As Geum-joo grapples with these revelations, she experiences withdrawal symptoms, including hallucinations of Eui-joon’s voice, blurring the line between reality and her emotions. The episode ends with a chilling twist: Geum-joo’s mother, who never drank, is found drinking heavily, collapsing into her daughter’s arms. This cliffhanger leaves viewers anxious for answers.

Viewer Ratings: Breaking the Monday-Tuesday Slump

Fans, did you see the numbers? Episode 6 already reached a nationwide rating of 2.8%, with peaks in the Seoul metropolitan area hitting 4.1%. Episode 7 continued this momentum, maintaining top rankings for its time slot across cable and general programming channels. This is a significant rebound from the previous drama, which ended at a dismal 1.1%. The show’s ability to attract both young and older viewers, especially in the coveted 20-49 demographic, is a testament to its broad appeal and relatable themes.

Community Buzz: What Korean Netizens Are Saying

Online communities like Theqoo, Instiz, and DC Inside are abuzz with discussions about the drama. Positive comments dominate, with many praising the chemistry between Soo-young and Gong Myung, as well as the realistic portrayal of family and addiction. A frequently upvoted comment reads: 'This is the first time I’ve seen a K-drama handle sobriety so honestly.' Another fan notes, 'The mother-daughter relationship feels so real, I cried.' However, some viewers express concern about the sudden dark turn in the story, especially with the mother’s drinking scene. The overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with about 80% of reactions highlighting the drama’s emotional depth and social message.

Cultural Context: Why Sobriety Matters in Korean Dramas

For international fans, here’s some background: Korea’s drinking culture is deeply embedded in social and professional life. Dramas often romanticize alcohol as a way to bond or cope with stress. 'Second Shot at Love' stands out by challenging this norm, showing both the struggles and rewards of quitting drinking. Eui-joon’s line, 'Our society is too lenient with alcohol,' resonates with many viewers who see the drama as a potential turning point for how sobriety is discussed in media. The show’s blend of humor, romance, and social commentary makes it both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Performance Review: Cast Chemistry and Storytelling Strengths

Choi Soo-young and Gong Myung deliver standout performances, bringing nuance to their roles. Soo-young’s portrayal of Geum-joo’s vulnerability and determination is especially praised in fan blogs and reviews. Gong Myung’s quiet strength as Eui-joon adds emotional weight to the story. The supporting cast, including Kim Sung-ryung as Geum-joo’s mother, adds layers to the family dynamics. Critics and bloggers agree that the writing balances light-hearted moments with serious themes, making the drama accessible yet impactful. The direction by Jang Yoo-jung is also noted for its sensitive handling of difficult topics.

Bloggers’ Take: Why Fans Are Hooked

Naver and Tistory bloggers echo the sentiment found in news articles and community posts. Many highlight how the drama’s message about sobriety is timely and relevant, especially as Korea faces growing public health discussions about alcohol. Bloggers appreciate the show’s refusal to glamorize drinking, instead focusing on personal growth and healing. One blogger writes, 'Second Shot at Love isn’t just a romance—it’s a story about learning to love yourself and those around you, even when things get tough.' The consensus is clear: this drama is more than just entertainment; it’s a conversation starter.

What’s Next? Anticipation for Episode 8

With Episode 7 ending on such a dramatic note, fans are eagerly speculating about what’s next for Geum-joo, Eui-joon, and their families. Will Geum-joo’s mother recover? Can Geum-joo and Eui-joon overcome their past and move forward together? The preview for Episode 8 hints at more emotional confrontations and a possible deepening of the couple’s relationship. As the drama continues to tackle real-life issues with sensitivity and heart, viewers are staying tuned, ready for more twists and heartfelt moments.