With the finale of the popular K-drama IDOL I just days away, actor Kim Jae Yeong has shared meaningful insights into the storyโs conclusion. The star, who plays idol Do Ra Ik, promises that the final two episodes will deliver both a moving character resolution and the long-awaited answer to the central murder mystery. Viewers can expect to see the deep bond between the leads, a final revelation of the culprit, and a satisfying end to this unique romance-thriller.
As fans prepare for the end, Kim Jae Yeong described the upcoming episodes as a beautiful farewell. He stated that the relationship between his character and lawyer Maeng Se Na, played by Girls’ Generationโs Sooyoung, goes beyond simple love to become a powerful source of strength for both of them.
The final week will also bring a major revelation. The culprit behind the murder of Kang Woo Sung, who has not been revealed yet, and the motive will also be revealed, Kim Jae Yeong confirmed. This promise sets high stakes for the final episodes, which will air on January 26 and 27 at 10 p.m. KST.
What to Expect in the Final Episodes of IDOL I
Kim Jae Yeong emphasized the emotional core of the final episodes. He said that moments where Do Ra Ik and Maeng Se Na support each other will complete the core feelings of the drama. This suggests that the conclusion will focus on emotional healing and personal growth as much as on solving the crime.
Sooyoung also shared her thoughts on her character’s journey. She noted that Maeng Se Na, who used to lack self-assurance, has now found someone with whom she can look at the flowering tree in her yard. This simple act represents a major change for the character, who has gained the strength to face the world. Sooyoung added that she hopes viewers received as much warm comfort from the drama as she did.
The actorโs comments suggest that the finale will pay off the slow-burn character development that has defined the series. It will be the point where conflicts that have built up are resolved, and viewers will see how Do Ra Ik confronts his wounds and recovers his feelings for his fans, and how Maeng Se Na shows her growth by sorting out the emotions she has been putting off.
Unresolved Mysteries and New Clues Heading into the Finale
The mystery has deepened with recent episodes. At the end of episode 10, Do Ra Ik made a crucial discovery about a piece of evidence: an earring found at the crime scene that matches his own jewelry. After checking his safe, he found one of his signature earrings was missing, leading him to tell Se Na, I think I know who came into my place that day.
This clue points toward a painful truth, likely involving someone Do Ra Ik loves and trusts. The drama has masterfully woven the personal and the criminal, making the upcoming reveal as much an emotional blow as a plot twist. The production team teased that in episode 11, the full story of the Kang Woo Sung murder case, which upended Maeng Se Na and Do Ra Ikโs daily lives, will be revealed.
Another major unresolved plot is the malicious media campaign against the leads. In episodes 9 and 10, a writer from the tabloid site Gossip Facts published invasive articles exposing Se Naโs personal history and falsely claiming the leads were living together unethically. This led to a mob of angry fans throwing light sticks at Se Na outside her office, a stark moment that showed how public opinion can be weaponized. How this media manipulation is addressed will be key to the characters’ public redemption.
The Evolution of Romance Between Do Ra Ik and Maeng Se Na
The relationship between the idol and his lawyer-fan has reached a pivotal moment. After a tender kiss in a secluded cabin, the two have confirmed their mutual feelings. This romantic development comes after a heartfelt date where Do Ra Ik showed Se Na his childhood school and visited an aquarium for the first time, experiencing simple joys he missed while training as an idol.
Se Na, who previously found it impossible to have self-assurance without an answer from the tree in her yard, now has someone with whom she can look at the flowering tree together. Just by being together with someone, she has gained the strength to go on living in the world.
The couple’s bond has become their sanctuary amidst the chaos. During their escape to a cabin, Se Na confessed her deepest insecurity: she became a lawyer to clear her father’s name but had been too scared to take on the case, running from the label of murderer’s daughter. Do Ra Ik comforted her, telling her that running away was not cowardice but a way of surviving. This mutual vulnerability has solidified their connection, setting the stage for how they will face the final challenges together.
Antagonist’s Last Move and Fan Reactions
Prosecutor Kwak Byeong Gyun, determined to prove Do Ra Ik’s guilt, has taken a drastic step. Despite being taken off the case, he reviewed the files and decided to indict Do Ra Ik, attempting to link him to both Woo Sung’s murder and bandmate Jae Hee’s suspicious car crash. This move forces a final legal confrontation.
Fan excitement and speculation are high on social media as the finale approaches. Many viewers are sharing theories about the killer’s identity, with popular guesses including characters close to Do Ra Ik like his former manager or someone from his past. Others are celebrating the romantic moments between the leads, calling their date scenes sweet and relatable. The hashtag #IDOLI_Finale is trending, with international fans on platforms like Viki preparing for watch parties.
The dramaโs unique mix of genresโpart legal thriller, part idol drama, part romanceโhas sparked discussions about the pressures of the entertainment industry. The portrayal of toxic journalism and fan culture in recent episodes has resonated with viewers, making the story feel relevant and impactful.
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Where and When to Watch the IDOL I Finale Episodes
For viewers around the world eager to see how the story ends, the final two episodes have a set schedule. The drama airs on its Korean network at 10 p.m. KST on January 26 and 27.
International audiences can stream the series with subtitles on the popular platform Viki. New episodes typically become available on Viki shortly after the Korean broadcast concludes. For viewers in different time zones, this means the finale will be accessible in North America on the morning of January 26 and 27, and in Europe during the late morning or afternoon of the same days.
As the countdown to the finale begins, the words of Kim Jae Yeong sum up the promise of the ending. He called IDOL I a human healing drama that goes beyond the love between an idol and their fans, expressing his hope that it gave viewers comfort and strength. The final episodes aim to deliver on that promise, resolving a gripping mystery while leaving audiences with a sense of emotional closure.
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