Kim Seon Ho’s Improvised Scene with IU’s Dad in Episode 13 of When Life Gives You Tangerines Has Fans in Splits
Netflix’s When Life Gives You Tangerines has delivered countless emotional punches throughout its run, but Episode 13 gave fans a rare moment of laugh-out-loud comedy—thanks to Kim Seon Ho’s brilliant improvisation. What started as a tense family dinner turned into an unexpectedly hilarious and heartwarming scene, and it’s now become one of the most beloved moments in the series.
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A Tense Dinner Turns into Comedy Gold
The scene unfolds with Park Chung Seob (played by Kim Seon Ho) nervously trying to impress his girlfriend Yang Geum Myeong’s (IU) father, Ywan Gwan Sik (played by Park Hae Joon). The atmosphere is thick with anxiety—until it suddenly isn’t. What was meant to be a serious moment spiraled into an awkward, laugh-filled mess that left both the cast and viewers in stitches.
The twist? Kim Seon Ho improvised the entire sequence.
Behind the Scenes: ‘None of It Was in the Script’
In a behind-the-scenes commentary, director Kim Won Suk revealed that none of the comedic elements in that scene were originally in the script. “All of it was his idea. His acting is so detailed,” he said, praising Kim Seon Ho’s spontaneous brilliance.
IU chimed in with admiration as well: “His slapstick comedy in this scene was brilliant. It’s not in the script, right?”
From exaggerated nervous laughter to clumsy hand gestures and even a moment where Kim Seon Ho accidentally slips into his real voice mid-line—the scene felt so natural and unscripted that it became instantly relatable and incredibly funny.
Going Viral and Winning Hearts
The improvised moment has since gone viral across social media. Fans can’t get enough of Kim Seon Ho’s raw, off-the-cuff performance. One line in particular has audiences laughing and swooning alike: “Marriage won’t be scary if it’s Park Chung Seob.”
The actor’s ability to blend humor, vulnerability, and charm in a single scene has earned him widespread praise. It also showcases a different, more playful side of Kim Seon Ho, contrasting beautifully with the more somber themes of the drama.
The Balance of Comedy and Emotion
While When Life Gives You Tangerines is known for its emotional weight and serious storytelling, Episode 13 stands out as a reminder of the series’ ability to find humanity—and humor—even in its darkest moments. Kim Seon Ho’s improvisation not only brought comic relief but also deepened the emotional connection with his character.
This scene proves that sometimes, the best TV moments are the ones that weren’t planned at all.
