Heavenly Ever After Episode 9: Shocking Past Lives Revealed - Fans Outraged by Controversial Karma Plot

## The Controversial Ninth Episode: Past Lives and Karma Revealed

The ninth episode of JTBC's weekend drama 'Heavenly Ever After' (also known as 'Beautiful Than Heaven') aired on May 17, 2025, bringing shocking revelations that have divided viewers and sparked intense debate online. The episode unveiled the past life connection between Lee Hae-sook (played by Kim Hye-ja) and Lee Young-ae (played by Lee Jung-eun), a revelation that many viewers found deeply problematic.

In this pivotal episode, Young-ae's father makes a surprising appearance in heaven, despite his history of child abuse and neglect during his earthly life. This unexpected arrival raises questions about the show's moral framework and its portrayal of karma and divine justice. The episode also continued developing the complex relationship between Ko Nak-joon (Son Seok-gu) and Som-i (Han Ji-min), as they confronted 'The Shirt Man' Kang Jung-gu (Jung Ji-gak), whose true identity was finally revealed.

The drama, which initially charmed audiences with its unique premise and heartwarming scenes of afterlife reunions, now faces criticism for its controversial handling of serious themes like child abuse and karmic retribution.

## Young-ae's Father: Heaven's Unexpected Visitor

One of the most shocking moments in episode 9 was the appearance of Young-ae's father in heaven. According to the released stills from JTBC, Young-ae's father visits the Heaven House, creating a tense confrontation with Lee Hae-sook, Ko Nak-joon, and his daughter Young-ae. As revealed in the episode, he was an irresponsible father who abused and neglected his young daughter during his earthly life.

Young-ae's reaction to seeing her father—a person she never wanted to meet or remember again—reveals the deep childhood trauma she still carries. The most perplexing aspect for viewers was why this man, with his history of abuse, would be sent to heaven rather than hell. This question amplifies when Young-ae and her father face the center director (played by Cheon Ho-jin), whose serious expression hints at significant revelations to come.

The production team explained that viewers should watch to see how Young-ae's father, who built a 'bad career' in the earthly world, came to heaven and will be punished for his sins in the afterlife. They promised to unravel more about 'the law of connection' that governs relationships across lifetimes.

## The Controversial Karma Philosophy

The episode's most contentious aspect was its revelation about the past life connection between Hae-sook and Young-ae. The show suggested that current victims of abuse might have been perpetrators in their past lives, implying that suffering in this life could be karmic retribution for past actions.

This philosophical stance has triggered significant backlash from viewers. Many expressed their anger on social media platforms and community forums, arguing that the show's karma philosophy essentially justifies child abuse as deserved punishment for actions in a previous life. One reviewer on YouTube criticized this worldview, asking: 'How can one live blaming no one if every harm done to you is just payback for your previous life? Is this truly a wise way to live?'

The center director's explanation that Young-ae's father had moved from hell to heaven after serving his punishment, and that experiencing true fatherly love in heaven would be his real punishment, further confused and frustrated viewers. Critics called this 'nonsensical philosophy' that undermines the show's initially promising premise about the afterlife.

## Nak-joon and Som-i: Uncovering Past Connections

Another significant storyline in episode 9 involved Ko Nak-joon and Som-i confronting 'The Shirt Man' Kang Jung-gu. When Nak-joon discovered Jung-gu's identity, he became enraged and confronted him about their past connection. During their confrontation, Jung-gu mockingly responded, 'Wasn't everyone doing it back then? Only fools didn't,' suggesting some kind of criminal activity they were both involved in.

The episode showed Som-i displaying extraordinary strength to protect Nak-joon when he was threatened by Jung-gu. This supernatural moment led Nak-joon to realize that Som-i's memories might be connected to his own past. The growing closeness between Nak-joon and Som-i has created tension with Hae-sook, who notices their bond but still cares for Som-i despite her discomfort.

The preview for the next episode hints at further exploration of the connection between Nak-joon and Som-i, with Som-i questioning why she felt such a strong need to protect Nak-joon from the elderly man. Their relationship appears to be deepening, creating a complicated emotional triangle with Hae-sook.

## Viewer Reactions: From Disappointment to Outrage

The ninth episode has triggered strong reactions from viewers, with many expressing disappointment and even anger at the show's direction. On various community platforms like Nate, Daum, and YouTube, viewers have criticized the drama's handling of serious themes and its increasingly convoluted plot.

One major criticism focuses on the show's suggestion that child abuse could be justified as karmic retribution. Comments across platforms express outrage at this philosophical stance, with many viewers feeling that it trivializes the trauma of abuse victims. The phrase 'Is child abuse karma?' has become a common refrain in discussions about the episode.

The show's ratings have reportedly suffered following this controversial episode. What began as a promising drama with unique concepts and heartwarming moments has, for many viewers, transformed into a disappointing series with problematic messaging. Some fans who initially praised the show for its fresh take on afterlife and touching scenes of reunion (particularly those involving pets and their owners) now express regret about continuing to watch.

## The Initial Appeal: What Drew Viewers to 'Heavenly Ever After'

Despite the current controversy, it's worth remembering what initially made 'Heavenly Ever After' appealing to audiences. The drama began with a unique premise: 80-year-old Lee Hae-sook arrives in heaven and reunites with her husband Ko Nak-joon, who has returned to his 30-year-old appearance. This second chance at life after death offered a blend of romance, comedy, and philosophical exploration that attracted viewers.

The show particularly resonated with pet owners through its portrayal of reunions between deceased pets and their human companions in heaven. These emotional scenes, enhanced by illustrations from web cartoonist Kikni, delivered powerful messages about the enduring bonds between humans and animals. Many viewers were moved to tears by these touching reunions, which provided comfort to those who had lost beloved pets.

The stellar cast, including national treasure Kim Hye-ja (potentially in her retirement role), Son Seok-gu, Lee Jung-eun, and Han Ji-min, also contributed to the show's initial success. Their performances have consistently received praise, even as criticism of the plot has mounted.

## What's Next for 'Heavenly Ever After'?

As 'Heavenly Ever After' approaches its conclusion, viewers are wondering if the show can redeem itself after the controversial ninth episode. The preview for upcoming episodes suggests that we'll learn more about Young-ae's father's journey from hell to heaven and the true nature of his punishment. The relationship between Nak-joon and Som-i will continue to develop, potentially creating more tension with Hae-sook.

The drama's writers, Lee Nam-gyu and Kim Soo-jin, face the challenge of resolving these complex storylines in a satisfying way while addressing the philosophical questions they've raised about karma, justice, and redemption in the afterlife. Director Kim Seok-yoon must navigate the delicate balance between the show's lighter, more whimsical elements and its exploration of serious themes.

Whether 'Heavenly Ever After' can deliver a finale that addresses viewers' concerns while staying true to its original vision remains to be seen. The drama continues to air on JTBC on Saturdays and Sundays at 10:40 PM KST, with just a few episodes remaining before its conclusion.