Episode 10 Recap: 'Cheers to Sobriety' Delivers Raw Emotion and Family Drama

A Turning Point: Episode 10’s Heart-Wrenching Dilemma

Did you know? Episode 10 of 'Cheers to Sobriety' (금주를 부탁해) aired on June 10, 2025, and instantly became one of the most talked-about episodes of the season. The main character, Han Geum-joo, faces a devastating crisis when her mother, Kim Gwang-ok, collapses from acute hepatitis. The family is thrown into turmoil as doctors announce that only a liver transplant can save her. Geum-joo, despite her own health risks due to years of drinking, volunteers to become her mother's donor. The episode’s emotional core revolves around her struggle to quickly lower her liver fat levels through relentless exercise and self-discipline, highlighting the sacrifices children make for their parents in Korean culture.
Viewers were especially moved by the mother’s refusal to accept the transplant, fearing for her daughter’s safety. The tension between filial piety and personal well-being is a recurring theme, making this episode a standout in terms of emotional depth and cultural resonance.

Family, Sacrifice, and Korean Drinking Culture

One of the most compelling aspects of 'Cheers to Sobriety' is its honest portrayal of Korea’s drinking culture and the social pressures that come with it. Geum-joo’s journey isn’t just about giving up alcohol for her own health—it’s also a reflection of the broader societal expectations placed on adults in Korea, where drinking is often seen as a way to bond and network. The irony of a character named 'Geum-joo' (which literally means 'abstinence') struggling with sobriety is not lost on viewers. The episode cleverly uses this irony to explore the challenges of breaking away from social norms, especially when family and health are at stake.
Fans on Korean forums like DC Inside and TheQoo praised the authenticity of the struggles depicted, with many sharing their own stories of family members facing similar dilemmas. Comments ranged from “This is the most realistic portrayal of Korean family life I’ve seen” to “I cried watching Geum-joo’s determination.”

Cast Performances: Sooyoung and Gong Myung Shine

Sooyoung’s portrayal of Han Geum-joo received widespread acclaim for its nuance and emotional range. Her transformation from a lighthearted, sometimes reckless mechanic to a daughter willing to risk everything for her mother captivated audiences. Gong Myung, playing Seo Eui-joon, added depth as the supportive yet conflicted love interest, whose own struggles with addiction and family secrets come to the surface in this episode.
Supporting actors like Kim Sung-ryung and Kim Sang-ho brought authenticity to the family dynamic, making the emotional stakes feel real and immediate. Critics from bntNews and StarNews Korea highlighted the ensemble cast’s chemistry, noting that their performances elevated the script’s emotional beats.

Viewer Ratings and Online Buzz

Episode 10 saw a slight dip in ratings, averaging around 4.9%, but maintained a loyal following, especially among women in their 30s to 50s. Despite not breaking the 10% mark, the show’s popularity on OTT platforms like TVING and its strong social media presence have kept it in the cultural conversation.
Community reactions on Naver and Daum were overwhelmingly positive, with over 70% of comments expressing empathy and admiration for Geum-joo’s character. However, some viewers felt the melodrama was a bit heavy-handed, wishing for more lighthearted moments. Still, the consensus was that the episode’s raw emotion and relatable conflicts made it a must-watch.

Cultural Insights: Why This Story Resonates

For international fans, understanding the significance of family and the role of alcohol in Korean society is key to appreciating 'Cheers to Sobriety.' In Korea, family obligations often take precedence over personal desires, and the act of sacrificing for one’s parents is deeply respected. The drama’s focus on sobriety is particularly relevant as younger generations in Korea are increasingly questioning traditional drinking norms.
The series also highlights the evolving role of women, as Geum-joo navigates her career, family, and personal growth. Her struggle is both uniquely Korean and universally relatable, making the show accessible to a global audience.

Critical Reviews and Blog Highlights

Naver and Tistory bloggers were quick to dissect Episode 10, with many praising its realistic depiction of health struggles and family dynamics. One blogger noted, “Geum-joo’s journey is not just about quitting alcohol; it’s about reclaiming her life and redefining what it means to be a good daughter.” Another pointed out the clever use of humor amidst the drama, saying, “Even in the darkest moments, the show finds ways to make us laugh and hope.”
Professional critics echoed these sentiments, with Khan Sports and Gukje News highlighting the show’s ability to balance heavy themes with moments of levity. The episode’s pacing and character development were also commended, solidifying its reputation as a standout in this year’s K-drama lineup.

Community Reactions: What Are Fans Saying?

On TheQoo, over 200 comments poured in after Episode 10 aired. Positive reactions dominated, with users saying things like, “I called my mom after watching this,” and “This episode made me reflect on my own family.” About 70% of comments were positive, 20% neutral, and 10% critical—mainly from viewers who felt the plot was moving too slowly.
On DC Inside, fans debated the realism of the medical storyline, but most agreed that the emotional core of the episode was powerful. Representative comments included, “Sooyoung’s acting has never been better,” and “The family scenes hit too close to home.” Negative feedback focused on the predictability of the transplant plot, but even critics admitted the performances kept them engaged.

Why International Fans Should Watch

If you’re new to Korean dramas, 'Cheers to Sobriety' offers a heartfelt look at the complexities of family, health, and personal growth in contemporary Korea. The show’s blend of humor, drama, and cultural insight makes it a perfect entry point for international viewers. As Korean society continues to evolve, stories like Geum-joo’s are becoming more relevant, reflecting the changing attitudes toward tradition, family, and self-care.
Whether you’re watching for the stellar performances, the relatable storylines, or the glimpse into Korean culture, Episode 10 is a testament to the power of honest storytelling. Don’t miss it!