Netflix’s When the Phone Rings continues to captivate audiences, with episode 6, released on December 15, 2024, leaving viewers emotionally charged. Despite delays caused by President Yoon Suk-yeol’s impeachment voting on December 14, the episode delivered a powerful and dramatic sequence, earning praise for its storytelling and performances.
The Emotional Turning Point in Episode 6
The sixth episode hinted at a significant emotional shift in Baek Sa-eon’s (played by Yoo Yeon-seok) behavior toward his wife, Hee-joo (Chae Soo-bin), potentially marking a turning point in their strained relationship. Viewers were drawn to Baek Sa-eon’s vulnerability and Hee-joo’s silent struggles as the couple’s dynamic took center stage.
One of the most impactful moments came when Hee-joo fell from a cliff and went missing. Baek Sa-eon, typically stoic and emotionally distant, was overcome with panic as he joined a search party to find her. This shift revealed his deeper feelings for his wife, which had been largely hidden beneath his composed exterior.
The climax occurred when Sa-eon received a call from Hee-joo, who was using the kidnapper’s phone. Disguising her voice with an auto-modulator, she coldly instructed him to retrieve his wife’s “corpse” from below the cliff. Despite recognizing her voice, Sa-eon played along, pleading with “the kidnapper” to reveal the location. This tense exchange showcased the actors’ ability to convey raw emotion and subtle complexities.
After falling off a cliff and her phone battery dies, Heejoo try to contact Saeon. Referring to him as 406 and the first thing she says is
Fans commended Yoo Yeon-seok’s unreal performance, balancing Baek Sa-eon’s stoicism with raw vulnerability. Similarly, Chae Soo-bin’s portrayal of Hee-joo’s silent suffering struck a chord with audiences, highlighting her character’s emotional depth and resilience.
Fans React to the Powerful Performances
The performances in When the Phone Rings episode 6 sparked widespread discussion on social media, with fans praising the emotional depth and authenticity of the acting. Some notable reactions included:
The pair’s on-screen chemistry and emotional performances in When the Phone Rings have become a major highlight of the series, sparking international acclaim and discussions on social platforms.
“Oh to watch a drama with a great storyline and actors who can effortlessly act. That ending scene is a cinema. The angst in his voice and eyes,” one fan wrote.
“The angst in his voice. Saying how scared he was. It’s almost a plea when he tells her to answer him. The cracked voice when he tells her he’s coming for her. THIS WHOLE SCENE WAS PERFECT,” another fan said.
“WDYM he packed her trekking bag? He put the first aid kit, with a portable emergency flare, his jacket and a water bottle!!! The way he is taking care of her like a baby. The love he has for her,” one other fan added.
Viewers were especially invested in Baek Sa-eon’s gradual transformation in When the Phone Rings, as he moves from aloofness to a more heartfelt connection with Hee-joo.
“”She can’t get dehydrated. She needs to drink water” The way he’s crying bcs he’s so worried abt her. Frustration, fears, hopelessness, trembling voice, body shaking. I can clearly see all the complex his emotions #ChaeSooBin #YooYeonSeok” one fan noted.
“Whoever casted #YooYeonSeok and #ChaeSooBin deserves a RAISE. The chemistry, emotions, tension and acting they shared here was just so damn good. They gave solid performance!” another fan wrote.
“I love the trope! The journey from him being nonchalant toward her, to growing restless and worried about her, to subtly showing he cares & finally running desperately to save her : pure drama. From Episode 1 to 6, they’ve come a long way,” one other fan added.
Fans also noted the subtle details in Baek Sa-eon’s actions, such as packing Hee-joo’s trekking bag with essentials, reflecting his care and concern despite their outwardly strained relationship.
When the Phone Rings is a suspenseful melodrama based on the popular web novel The Number You Have Dialed by Geon Eomul-nyeo. The story revolves around Baek Sa-eon, a presidential spokesperson, and his wife, Hee-joo, whose selective mutism stems from past trauma. Their marriage, born out of political convenience, masks deep emotional wounds and unresolved secrets.
Key Cast:
Yoo Yeon-seok as Baek Sa-eon: A presidential spokesperson grappling with his public image and private turmoil.
Chae Soo-bin as Hee-joo: A woman burdened by trauma, navigating her silent struggles with resilience.
Heo Nam-joo as Ji Sang-woo: A charming crime reporter and YouTuber.
Im Chul-soo as Kang Yeong-u: Baek Sa-eon’s team leader.
Jang Gyu-ri as Na Yu-ri: A reporter and newscaster.
Supporting Cast: Han Jae-yi and Yoo Seong-ju add depth and intrigue to the narrative with their compelling performances.
Series Highlights and Future Episodes
Episodes 1 through 6 of When the Phone Rings explore the emotional and psychological tension between Baek Sa-eon and Hee-joo, as their fragile relationship is tested by mysterious events. While Sa-eon is initially portrayed as aloof and career-driven, episode 6 hints at his gradual transformation, setting the stage for an emotionally charged continuation in episode 7.
Watch When the Phone Rings episode 7 preview below.
The drama, co-directed by Park Sang-woo (The Forbidden Marriage) and Wi Deuk-gyu, and written by Kim Ji-woon (Melancholia), has been lauded for its intricate storyline and stunning cinematography. The 12-episode series airs every Friday and Saturday at 10 PM KST on Netflix, with episodes 7 and 8 scheduled for release on December 20 and 21, respectively.
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