Heavenly Ever After Episode 3: Memory Grapes, Jealousy, and a Mysterious Woman

The Emotional Orientation Day in Heaven

In episode 3 of 'Heavenly Ever After' (천국보다 아름다운), we witness Hae-sook (played by Kim Hye-ja) experiencing the final day of heaven's orientation. Unlike the peaceful paradise she might have expected, heaven comes with its own bureaucracy and emotional challenges. The episode opens with Hae-sook sitting down to watch her entire life replay before her eyes – a standard procedure for all new arrivals to heaven.

This powerful scene shows Hae-sook reliving every significant moment of her earthly existence. From the innocent joys of her childhood to the profound grief of losing her mother to the river, every memory washes over her. We see her first encounter with Nak-joon (Son Suk-ku), the happiness they shared, and the devastating accident that left him paralyzed. As Hae-sook struggles with the emotional weight of seeing her entire life in retrospect, the heaven's director offers comforting words, acknowledging the pain she endured during her time on Earth.

This orientation sequence brilliantly establishes the emotional foundation for the episode, reminding viewers of the deep connection between Hae-sook and Nak-joon while highlighting how different their experiences of life were. The contrast between her memories and their current situation in heaven – where she remains elderly while he has returned to his 30-year-old self – creates a poignant tension that drives much of the episode's conflict.

The Mysterious Som-yi Appears

The episode takes a dramatic turn when Hae-sook and Nak-joon return home to find a mysterious young woman has attached herself to Nak-joon. This woman, later named Som-yi (played by Han Ji-min), has no memory of who she is or how she arrived in heaven. She only recognizes Nak-joon, claiming he saved her from falling into hell during one of his subway runs as part of his heavenly duties.

Hae-sook's reaction is entirely understandable – pure jealousy and suspicion. Why would this beautiful young woman remember only her husband? The situation creates immediate tension in their relationship, with Hae-sook feeling threatened not only by Som-yi's youth and beauty but also by the special connection she seems to share with Nak-joon.

The introduction of Som-yi adds a fascinating layer to the narrative. Is she truly a lost soul, or does she have a deeper connection to the couple that neither of them recognizes? Viewers are left wondering about her true identity, with theories ranging from her being Young-ae (who committed suicide) to possibly being a younger version of Hae-sook herself. This mystery element keeps the audience engaged and speculating about the true nature of heaven in this fictional universe.

The Grape Circles and Heavenly Rules

One of the most intriguing aspects of episode 3 is the revelation of heaven's punishment system. While cleaning the garden in frustration after arguing with Nak-joon, Hae-sook discovers four purple, grape-like circles hovering above the ground. Each circle displays video clips of her recent behavior.

Nak-joon explains that these 'grape circles' are warnings – signs of heavenly errors. If someone collects six of them, they risk being sent to hell. To Hae-sook's horror, she already has four, largely due to her jealousy and anger toward Som-yi and Nak-joon.

This clever plot device serves multiple purposes. It establishes that heaven isn't simply a place of eternal bliss but has its own rules and consequences. It also creates stakes for Hae-sook's behavior – her jealousy isn't just emotionally damaging but could have eternal consequences. The grape circles visualize her internal struggle, making her emotional journey tangible for viewers.

The concept adds a unique element to the show's mythology, distinguishing it from other afterlife dramas by creating a specific, visual representation of moral judgment that continues even in paradise.

Runaways and Heaven's Bureaucracy

When Nak-joon takes Som-yi to the Heaven Center seeking answers about her identity, we learn more about the bureaucracy of the afterlife. People who arrive in heaven with no memories are classified as 'runaways' – souls who have somehow slipped through the system. If caught, their punishment would be worse than an ordinary journey to hell.

This revelation adds urgency to Som-yi's situation and complicates Nak-joon's desire to help her. It also expands the world-building of the show, suggesting that heaven's system isn't perfect – there are cracks through which souls can slip, rules that can be bent, and authorities who might not always have everyone's best interests at heart.

Meanwhile, back at home, the three abandoned dogs that live with Hae-sook and Nak-joon immediately recognize something special about Som-yi. They declare her their leader, adding another layer of mystery to her character. Are the dogs, with their animal intuition, sensing something about Som-yi that the humans cannot?

The Breaking Point and Heartbreaking Decision

The tension between Hae-sook and Nak-joon reaches a breaking point when she confronts him about his attachment to Som-yi. In a heated argument, Nak-joon expresses his frustration that Hae-sook has been angry with him since her arrival in heaven, misunderstanding his intentions at every turn.

When he reminds her that ejecting Som-yi could put him in serious danger with heaven's authorities, and mentions Hae-sook's choice to enter heaven as an 80-year-old, the words cut deep. Hurt and overwhelmed, Hae-sook makes the heartbreaking decision to leave their home.

This scene powerfully illustrates how even in paradise, relationships require work and understanding. The argument feels painfully realistic – two people who love each other deeply but are struggling to navigate a new reality together. Hae-sook's decision to leave demonstrates both her pride and her vulnerability, while Nak-joon's frustration shows how even the most devoted husband can sometimes fail to understand his wife's perspective.

The scene is beautifully acted by Kim Hye-ja and Son Suk-ku, who convey decades of love and hurt in their exchange. Their argument reminds viewers that heaven doesn't automatically resolve the communication issues and insecurities that plague earthly relationships.

Audience Reception and Cultural Impact

Episode 3 of 'Heavenly Ever After' has resonated strongly with viewers, contributing to the show's impressive brand reputation. According to recent brand reputation rankings released on May 5, 2025, 'Heavenly Ever After' ranked first among all Korean dramas, surpassing even higher-rated shows on major networks.

Viewers have particularly praised the emotional depth of episode 3, with many commenting on social media about how the orientation scene brought them to tears. The chemistry between Kim Hye-ja and Son Suk-ku continues to be highlighted as one of the show's greatest strengths, with their argument scene in this episode drawing special praise for its authenticity.

The mysterious character of Som-yi has sparked numerous theories online, with viewers debating her true identity and purpose in the story. Some believe she represents Hae-sook's younger self, while others think she might be connected to their daughter Young-ae or even Hae-sook's beloved cat reincarnated in human form.

Critics have noted that while the show maintains elements of comedy, episode 3 marks a shift toward more emotional storytelling, balancing humor with deeper themes of love, jealousy, and self-worth. This tonal balance has been well-received, with many praising the show's ability to be both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Looking Ahead: What's Next for Hae-sook and Nak-joon

As episode 3 concludes with Hae-sook leaving home, viewers are left wondering how this heavenly couple will reconcile. The preview for episode 4 suggests that Hae-sook will find herself at a surprisingly empty church in heaven – a place that, as one character notes, is "the most deserted place in paradise."

There, she appears to meet a pastor (played by Ryu Deok-hwan), adding another interesting character to the heavenly landscape. Meanwhile, the mystery of Som-yi deepens as she begins to wonder if she might be Young-ae, Hae-sook and Nak-joon's daughter who committed suicide.

The show continues to explore the complex dynamics of love that transcends age, appearance, and even death itself. As we move into the middle portion of this 12-episode series, the groundwork laid in episode 3 promises to lead to even more emotional revelations and supernatural twists.

With its unique premise, strong performances, and thoughtful exploration of what happens after death, 'Heavenly Ever After' has established itself as one of the most compelling Korean dramas of 2025. Episode 3 in particular stands as a turning point, deepening both the mythology of its heavenly setting and the emotional stakes for its central characters.