Shim Hyung-tak and Park Soo-hong, both wounded by their families, resonate with viewers.
In 'Return of Superman,' actor Shim Hyung-tak revisited his heartbreaking family story. Particularly, Park Soo-hong, who has endured a similar pain, comforted him, evoking a profound sense of empathy.
On the episode aired on 23rd, KBS2's 'Return of Superman,' Shim Hyung-tak was seen caring for his 164-day-old son, 'Haru.' During this time, he cautiously recalled his wedding day.
Shim Hyung-tak confessed, "Not a single blood relative came. I was alone. I was in so much pain from my family that I felt like I was dying. At that time, my wife put an oxygen mask on me. She was the one who helped me breathe and stand up again." At this, Park Soo-hong, who appeared alongside him, quietly took his hand and briefly remarked, "I understand that feeling."
Park Soo-hong also experienced pain from having a wedding without a single relative. He loved his family more than anyone, and for over 30 years, he worked hard in broadcasting for them. However, he had to fight his family in court due to his older brother's embezzlement case, and he even suffered physical abuse from his father, leading to a mental breakdown.
For this reason, Shim Hyung-tak and Park Soo-hong's connection went beyond simple comfort; it was a silent understanding that only those who share the same wounds can have. Park Soo-hong also suffered a loss of about 6 billion won due to his older brother's embezzlement, and he was greatly hurt watching his parents protect his brother and turn against him. He was physically assaulted by his father during questioning and fainted from hyperventilation, being taken to the hospital.
Shim Hyung-tak also confessed about his family issues on TV CHOSUN's 'Lovers of Joseon,' revealing years of mental anguish due to his mother's repeated financial problems. He said that after being told by his mother, "With just 300 million won, you can get an apartment with a view of the Han River," he was left with nothing after giving up all his savings and even faced a civil lawsuit, begging, "Please save me, I feel like I’m going to die."
Both men loved and trusted their families more than anyone, but they suffered the deepest wounds from those very families. Thanks to their wives, however, they regained their smiles. At the end of despair, it was not just love that brought them hope. Shim Hyung-tak stated, "Thanks to Saya, I truly found myself again. During the times I had no reason to smile, I found my smile again thanks to Saya," adding, "I’m so happy now. I met an angel. From now on, I will live only for Saya and Haru, my family."
Park Soo-hong also managed to regain his composure and rise again through his wife, Kim Da-ye. Despite numerous criticisms and doubts, his wife stood by him until the end, becoming the reason for his life.
Following the broadcast, messages of support for the two poured into online communities and social media. "The bond formed by the heart is the true family, not blood," and "I support both Shim Hyung-tak and Park Soo-hong. I believe they will become really great dads," users expressed their encouragement. Both men, wounded by their blood relatives and revived by the bonds formed through their hearts, received continued support from many people as they embark on new paths with their families.
Meanwhile, Shim Hyung-tak is set to showcase a different charm as he ventures into parenting variety shows through 'Return of Superman.' Many people's eyes are focused on the story of the 'real family' he is creating again.
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