Tears and Triumph: The Heartbreaking Love Story in 'Squid's Affection' Episode 3

The Blooming Romance in 'Yesterday: Their Spring'

Netflix's hit series 'Squid's Affection' (폭싹 속았수다) has captivated audiences worldwide with its poignant storytelling and exceptional performances. Episode 3, titled 'Yesterday: Their Spring,' takes viewers deeper into the complex relationship between Aesooni (played by IU) and Gwansik (played by Park Bo-gum) against the backdrop of 1960s Jeju Island. This episode, which has already aired as part of the drama that concluded on March 28, 2025, stands out as one of the most emotionally charged chapters in the series.

The third episode continues to develop the intricate web of relationships while focusing on the tender love story between our protagonists. The narrative beautifully captures the essence of young love amidst societal pressures and personal aspirations. Viewers witness Aesooni's internal conflict as she makes heart-wrenching decisions that affect both her future and Gwansik's dreams.

A Sacrifice for Dreams

One of the most touching aspects of Episode 3 is Aesooni's painful decision to push Gwansik away for the sake of his future. After sharing their first kiss in a rapeseed flower field-a scene that has become iconic among fans-Aesooni deliberately hurts Gwansik with harsh words, believing this sacrifice will allow him to pursue his education on the mainland without being held back by their relationship.

The emotional weight of this sacrifice is palpable through IU's nuanced performance. As Aesooni watches the clock, secretly hoping for a different outcome while contemplating marriage to Sanggil (the wealthy ship captain), viewers can feel her inner turmoil. Sanggil, portrayed as financially stable but with concerning personality traits, represents the practical but loveless path that many women of that era were forced to consider.

Meanwhile, Gwansik reluctantly boards the ship to the mainland, tears streaming down his face as he leaves behind not just Jeju Island, but the love of his life. Park Bo-gum's portrayal of this heartbreak has been widely praised for its authenticity and emotional depth.

The Dramatic Reunion

Just when it seems that fate has separated our lovers, Episode 3 delivers one of the most memorable moments in recent K-drama history. Realizing her mistake, Aesooni rushes to the port, but arrives too late as the ship has already departed. In a moment of pure cinematic magic, Gwansik hears Aesooni's voice calling his name and, without hesitation, dives from the moving ship into the ocean.

The sequence, described by viewers as reminiscent of a whale's determined journey, shows Gwansik swimming frantically back to shore. This grand gesture of love, defying both physical limitations and societal expectations, culminates in a tearful embrace between the two characters that has left audiences worldwide reaching for tissues.

This pivotal scene encapsulates the drama's central theme: that true love transcends practical considerations and rational decisions. As one community comment noted, 'This wasn't just a man swimming back to shore-it was destiny itself refusing to be denied.'

Social Consequences and Cultural Context

Episode 3 doesn't shy away from depicting the harsh social realities of 1960s Korea. Following their dramatic reunion, Aesooni faces severe consequences. She is expelled from school under the pretense of 'unauthorized absence and moral misconduct,' becoming the subject of malicious gossip in their small community.

The episode skillfully portrays how young women in particular bore the brunt of social judgment, with Aesooni labeled as a troublemaker who 'bewitched the eldest grandson of a respectable family.' These scenes provide international viewers with valuable insight into Korea's social dynamics during this period, where individual happiness was often sacrificed at the altar of family reputation and societal expectations.

The cultural context is further enriched by references to poet Yoo Chi-hwan, whose works Gwansik recites to comfort Aesooni, adding layers of literary significance to their relationship and highlighting the importance of poetry in expressing emotions that social constraints might otherwise silence.

Artistic Excellence and Production Value

Beyond its compelling narrative, Episode 3 showcases the exceptional production values that have made 'Squid's Affection' a standout series. The cinematography captures Jeju Island's natural beauty with breathtaking wide shots of the ocean and intimate close-ups of the rapeseed flower fields where pivotal scenes unfold.

The period-appropriate costumes and set designs transport viewers to 1960s Jeju, creating an immersive experience that feels authentic rather than staged. The attention to detail extends to the linguistic nuances, with characters speaking in Jeju dialect that adds another layer of cultural richness to the storytelling.

The episode's soundtrack, particularly IU's 'Night Walk' which was officially released on March 22, 2025, enhances the emotional impact of key scenes. The music becomes not just an accompaniment but an integral part of the storytelling, elevating moments of both heartbreak and joy.

Overwhelming Viewer Response

Episode 3 of 'Squid's Affection' generated an extraordinary response from viewers both in Korea and internationally. Online communities and social media platforms were flooded with reactions, with many describing it as 'life-changing television' and praising the chemistry between IU and Park Bo-gum.

Domestic viewers particularly connected with the authentic portrayal of family dynamics and the societal pressures faced by young people in that era. Comments like 'I couldn't watch without tears' and 'I'm afraid the remaining episodes will be unbearably sad' reflected the emotional investment audiences had in these characters.

The episode contributed significantly to the series' impressive viewership metrics, helping it secure the #1 position on Netflix Korea's Top 10 and reach #4 globally in the non-English content category. By its second week, the series had already amassed over 6 million views, setting the stage for its eventual recognition at the 2025 Baeksang Arts Awards, where it would later win four major categories.

Critical Analysis and Cultural Impact

What makes Episode 3 particularly significant in the broader context of 'Squid's Affection' is how it balances personal drama with social commentary. While centered on a love story, the episode subtly examines class differences, gender expectations, and the tension between tradition and individual desire in mid-20th century Korea.

Critics have noted how the episode avoids melodramatic clichés despite its emotional intensity, instead grounding its most dramatic moments in believable character motivations and historical context. This authenticity has resonated with international audiences, making the specific cultural setting of Jeju Island in the 1960s feel universally relatable.

The episode's exploration of sacrifice for love has sparked meaningful discussions about how societal pressures continue to influence personal relationships today, demonstrating the drama's relevance beyond its period setting. As one reviewer noted, 'Through the specific lens of 1960s Jeju, we see reflections of our own modern struggles between heart and practicality.'

Looking Back from 2025

Now in May 2025, with the complete series having concluded and achieved recognition at the Baeksang Arts Awards with four major wins, Episode 3 stands as a pivotal turning point in what has become one of the year's most celebrated dramas. The episode's perfect balance of heartbreak and hope set the emotional tone for the remaining installments, which would go on to chronicle the couple's journey across seven decades.

For viewers who have completed the series, returning to Episode 3 offers a bittersweet experience, knowing the challenges that await Aesooni and Gwansik, including the controversial later development of Gwansik's death that some viewers found abrupt. Yet this foreknowledge only enhances the poignancy of their youthful determination to be together against all odds.

As 'Squid's Affection' continues to gain new audiences through Netflix's global platform, Episode 3 remains a standout chapter that encapsulates everything that made this series special: authentic emotions, cultural specificity with universal themes, and performances that transcend language barriers to speak directly to the heart.