Chapter 31

[Big Success Ahead! Amazing Ratings for The Moon That Hid the Sun!]

[Tear-Jerking, ‘The Moon That Hid the Sun’. KMB Sharpens Their Blade.]

[With The Moon That Hid the Sun Performing Well, Action King Faces a Terrifying Crisis at 13% Ratings.]

[The Reign of Child Actors: Is “No Fun” a Thing of the Past?]

[The Child Actress Who Made Moms Cry, Who Is Joo Seo-yeon? The Unexpected Success of the Two You CF!]

The Moon That Hid the Sun, Episode 3.

Young Lee Hye-wol and Young Yoon Seoil.

This episode marked the end of their childhood.

In other words, from here on out, this could truly be called the real start of The Moon That Hid the Sun.

The story where the grown-up Lee Hye-wol and Yoon Seoil reunite begins.

However…

– Don’t you think the child actor parts could have been stretched out a bit longer?

– Watching with my mom, this was super fun.

– Is this what all child actors are like these days?? They’re just insane.

– The child chosen over Seohui Jo is really amazing. Now I get why she was picked.

– Idols should watch these kids act and take notes. Seriously.

Online reviews were mostly filled with regret that the child actor parts had ended so quickly.

It was a testament to the massive impact of Episode 3.

This was an unusual event in the entertainment industry, causing quite a stir.

Particularly…

“Anyone have pictures of Joo Seo-yeon?”

“Was anyone at the premiere or teaser event?”

“Seriously, don’t we have any pictures for articles?”

The journalists were the most flustered. While they hastily included screenshots from the drama, it didn’t quite have the same effect.

Others were doing the same thing, so the pictures didn’t stand out.

“Hey, what is this, Binghoon? When did you take this picture?”

“It was at the teaser event. And I wasn’t at the premiere either.”

While there were plenty of group photos from events like premieres and teasers, it was rare to have exclusive shots like those captured by reporter Binghoon.

“By any chance, can I use some good ones for my article?”

“Sorry, I don’t have anything suitable.”

Though Binghoon smiled as he replied, internally, he was frustrated.

‘So that’s why all he did was take pictures of Ha Ye-seo.’

In any case, once the next episode aired, it would return to the Ha Ye-seo era, since The Moon That Hid the Sun was already a guaranteed hit.

“I’ve been an entertainment reporter for a long time, and I’ve never seen ratings like this in the child actor category.”

“Tell me about it. How is this even possible?”

“I watched with my wife, and it was just incredible. Wasn’t there an idol who acted in Action King?”

“Ah, Sebin? But even for an idol, they did pretty well, right?”

At that comment, the man disagreed.

“Yes, for an idol, they did well, but not as well as the child actor. Especially this Joo Seo-yeon—is this her first drama, right?”

“Wait, it’s her first?”

“Sir, how can a journalist be so out of touch?”

While overhearing these conversations, Binghoon continued writing his article. His only regret was that he hadn’t secured an exclusive interview during the teaser event.

“Still, something felt off yesterday.”

Yesterday’s Episode 3 of The Moon That Hid the Sun showcased a performance by Seo-yeon as Princess Yeonhwa that was nothing short of perfect. But Binghoon had a nagging feeling.

It was as though Princess Yeonhwa—and not just the actress—was truly about to leave.

“Nah, surely not.”

Who would give up such popularity and just walk away?

“Of course, that’s what’ll happen.”

This child has a shine to her. There’s no doubt in his mind that Seo-yeon would grow into a great actress.

Binghoon was confident about it.

***

“This is right, isn’t it, PD Ha?”

“Certainly.”

“Wow, this is real.”

The main character of *The Moon That Hid the Sun,* Kang Sung-chan, who took on the role of adult Yoon Seoil, let out a whistle.

“With an average of 30%, it’s ridiculous, let alone the fact that the momentary ratings were said to be what? 36%?”

If you cut those ratings in half, it’s still a hit. With a 15% rating in the first three episodes, it’s bound to be called a “blockbuster.”

Still, the thought of exceeding 36% momentarily made Kang Sung-chan chuckle despite himself.

“This was from a period drama I acted in long ago, right? That show was a big hit, and the last episode barely reached 41%.”

“Right. Back then, it was quite a commotion.”

“Yes, it was a massive commotion. So what do you think about hitting 36% on the third episode?”

Through the phone, PD Ha Tae-oh’s laugh could be heard. Kang Sung-chan was certain he understood.

Dramas that made such a splash at this stage can literally be counted on one hand.

It’s almost unbelievable that these achievements were made solely by the two child actors.

“Since there’s a webtoon adaptation, even if the ratings are higher than other dramas…”

After saying that, he sighed.

“If we mess this up going forward, we’re going to get absolutely destroyed. In particular, Ha Ye-seo will have quite the burden.”

He was fine. He was Park Jung-woo, the son of the big-name actor Park Sun-woong. That kid had been known as an exceptionally talented child actor since he was young.

But Joo Seo-yeon is different.

Just one point:

She’s only acted in this drama, *The Moon That Hid the Sun.*

To be compared with Seo-yeon would put Ye-seo in an unenviable position.

If a highly acclaimed actor performs worse than a seven-year-old, what does that say?

“Of course, she definitely performs better.”

Kang Sung-chan knew that Ha Ye-seo’s acting wasn’t inferior to Seo-yeon.

But simply “better” isn’t good enough—it doesn’t inspire confidence.

Winning would barely cover her costs, and losing could leave Ha Ye-seo tasting the bitterest possible experience in her acting career.

“And what is our little superstar doing these days?” Kang asked. “Given the current situation, it must be hard for her to go outside. Oh, and by the way, is her next project already set?”

Already, they were all looking forward to Seo-yeon’s next performance. Kang Sung-chan was even considering joining the project if she did well.

However, his hopes were dashed by what Ha Tae-oh said next.

“What? Are you serious? An indefinite hiatus?”

The news that a child actor who was currently at the peak of her popularity was entering an unlimited break was shocking, to say the least.

***

*The Moon That Hid the Sun,* Episode 3.

Due to the astonishing peak viewership rating of 36%, Seo-yeon was now, hands down, the neighborhood superstar.

She couldn’t even bring herself to attend kindergarten.

Even a week after the airing of Episode 3, the situation hadn’t changed.

“Seo-yeon, all the kids are asking what you’re up to.”

At Seo-yeon’s house, Lee Ji-yeon said this while looking at Seo-yeon, who was sprawled lazily on the floor.

“Hmph, you’ll see if you watch.”

Lying amongst her stuffed animals, Seo-yeon said as much.

Honestly, it’s hard to explain this feeling from Seo-yeon’s perspective. One day, everything changes in life. She certainly didn’t anticipate being the person to go through this.

“Aren’t you ashamed?”

“Huh?”

“Are you really taking a break?”

Instead of Seo-yeon, Lee Ji-yeon revealed just how sad she was. Then, as if an idea struck her, she cautiously asked,

“Are you guys not moving away or anything, are you?”

Children who have suddenly become popular aren’t always blessed. In the past, a child actor from a certain sitcom who became a national sensation faced bullying in school.

Even after several moves, the situation didn’t change, eventually leading to the child refusing to attend school altogether. It was a given that the child actor had to step away from the profession.

Years later, he appeared on TV to briefly update everyone about his life.

“If we move, how will we attend the voice acting academy with you?”

“Oh right!”

Lee Ji-yeon relaxed and laughed. It was now clear to Seo-yeon just how much Ji-yeon cared about her.

Thinking about it, the presence of Ji-yeon made things more manageable.

‘The kindergarten tyrant might not be such a bad thing because of Ji-yeon.’

Ji-yeon’s role as an inhibitor of bullies played a significant part.

“And I, I’ll actually improve my acting.”

“…You? Why?”

“Because it’s obviously because I have a lot of weaknesses.”

At this statement from Seo-yeon, Ji-yeon was completely baffled.

A few days ago, when watching *The Moon That Hid the Sun* with her mom,

Ji-yeon was honestly shocked. She couldn’t believe that this was the kind of performances expected from child actors of Seo-yeon’s age.

She outperformed the older teens she’d seen at the agency or acting school by leaps and bounds.

‘Then why learn acting?’

Lee Ji-yeon thought. If Seo-yeon went to the acting school, everyone would likely freeze in astonishment.

However, seeing Seo-yeon insist like this, Ji-yeon figured there must be some reason. After all, she was still a kid and simply accepted that.

“Seo-yeon.”

At that moment, the door opened, and Sua walked in.

“For you, Ji-yeon, here’s some beverage and fruit. Would you like some?”

“Yes.”

“Good. And also…”

After a small moment of hesitation, Sua continued.

“PD Ha Tae-oh was wondering if you should do any interviews?”

“Interviews?”

“Ah, it’s not just interviews, but appearing on *Celebrity Live*.”

*Celebrity Live.*

It’s a variety show that covers celebrity gossip. The program has a segment where they interview recent hot celebrities.

“By the way, this would be the third time with child actors.”

Honestly, Seo-yeon wasn’t particularly interested in variety shows. She had so much to learn, and continuing to appear might only make it hard for her to let go.

‘Still, a final interview could be okay.’

Disappearing suddenly might be cool, but saying goodbye properly might be better.

After thinking this way, Seo-yeon nodded.

“Alright.”

“Really?”

“Yes.”

Sua, surprised by Seo-yeon’s unexpected acceptance, opened her eyes wide. Given Seo-yeon’s personality, Sua assumed she would make a clean break without looking back.

Especially, Sua believed Seo-yeon would avoid variety shows at all costs.

But contrary to Sua’s expectations, Seo-yeon didn’t particularly dislike TV variety shows.

‘If I go on variety shows, I might learn broadcasting techniques.’

Hmm.

Seo-yeon crossed her arms. Vtubers ultimately compete with content.

It resembles being on variety shows in that regard.

However, as mentioned before, constantly appearing on screen might create attachment, so she decided to step away.

‘Since I can always do variety shows later.’

Rather, it might offer more opportunities then.

With acting, singing, voice acting techniques, and lastly self-defense, Seo-yeon had her list ready.

‘Whether as a Vtuber or an actor, it’s no easy job.’

With the feeling that her future was about to get very busy, Seo-yeon prepared her mind for it.

***

“What? She’s really doing it?”

Ha Tae-oh smiled brightly upon hearing from Sua. He presumed a girl like Seo-yeon might decline outright.

However, the answer was positive.

The first variety show appearance of Joo Seo-yeon was officially confirmed.

“Congratulations. This is Seo-yeon’s first show appearance, and it’s also her last during her childhood, right?”

“Haha, of course, we know! Thank you very much. You know I adore you, Director Ha!”

PD Shin Jae-Woon of KMB’s Entertainment Division shook with excitement. He could never have imagined his support for the *The Moon That Hid the Sun* making video would come back like this.

Back then, it had doubled the ratings. What about now?

‘Let’s continue for another year!’

Just as talk of wrapping up the *Celebrity Live* began to circulate, PD Shin Jae-Woon had no intention of missing this chance.

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