The World of the Married
Drama guideEnded

The World of the Married

부부의 세계

She was living her dreams but a betrayal turned her life into a nightmare.

Air date: 2020-03-27
Episodes: 16 ep
Network: JTBC
Rating: 7.5 / 10
Cast entries
19
Episodes
16
Locations
5
Food stops
3
Story

Synopsis

A concise overview of the premise, tone, and dramatic setup.

In The World of the Married, Ji Sun Woo is a family clinic associate director who seemingly leads a perfect life, complete with a loving husband, Lee Tae Oh, an aspiring movie director, and an adoring son. However, her idyllic existence shatters when she discovers that her husband has been unfaithful, engaging in a long-term affair with a younger woman, Yeo Da Kyung.

As Sun Woo confronts betrayal not only from Tae Oh but also from their friends, she embarks on a fierce journey of revenge. The drama intricately explores themes of love, betrayal, obsession, and vengeance, unraveling the complexities hidden beneath the surface of their marriage. Based on the BBC series Doctor Foster, this 2020 K-drama captivated audiences, delving into universal themes with intensity.

Why The World of the Married keeps viewers on edge

The World of the Married makes for an intense viewing experience. The show unpacks the chaos that erupts when Ji Sun Woo, played with raw emotional depth by Kim Hee-ae, learns that her husband, Lee Tae Oh, has been unfaithful. The series dives into not just infidelity, but the ripple effects that betrayal has on relationships, friendships, and self-identity. This K-drama is inspired by the British series Doctor Foster, but it takes the already dramatic premise to an entirely new level, showcasing the intricacies of marital discord and revenge.

What sets this drama apart is its relentless exploration of complex emotions. Kim Hee-ae is a standout, portraying a woman who transforms from a loving wife into a fierce avenger. Her performance resonates deeply, bringing layers of vulnerability and strength to Sun Woo. Park Hae-joon as Lee Tae Oh captures the essence of a man caught in his web of lies, making viewers both loathe and empathize with him at different points. The tension heightens with Han So-hee's Yeo Da Kyung, the younger woman whose presence ignites the series' conflict. Her character isn’t just a home-wrecker; she embodies the naivety that often accompanies love’s illusions, which adds another layer to the already tangled narrative.

The series takes you through various settings, from the luxurious vistas of Resom Forest to the intimate family meals at D Lifestyle Kitchen, where the characters navigate their lives amid mounting tensions. Each location contributes to the storytelling, highlighting the contrasts between appearances and reality. The lavish yet fragile lives of these characters illustrate that even a polished facade can hide a dark underbelly of deception and pain.

Moreover, the pacing of the show keeps you wanting more, as the episodes unravel secrets at a gratifying clip. The way it portrays the unraveling of friendships shows that betrayal isn’t just romantic; it extends into the social fabric of life. This multi-faceted approach will resonate particularly with viewers who appreciate intricate character studies and morally gray scenarios.

In a nutshell, The World of the Married isn’t just about one woman’s plight but a broader commentary on trust, love, and revenge. It’s a gripping, well-acted series that speaks to the complexities of modern relationships, making it a compelling choice for anyone drawn to intense drama with emotional stakes.

Exploring the Emotional Landscapes of Jecheon and Paju in *The World of the Married*

Picture this: you're walking along a path surrounded by autumn leaves, the air crisp and cool, and suddenly, a view of rolling hills opens up before you. This moment captures the essence of Resom Forest, a key filming location in The World of the Married. Known for its natural setting, this spot is where the characters' luxurious lives unfold amidst stunning scenery.

Start your visit at Resom Forest, located in Jecheon. The well-maintained walking trails offer not just a chance to immerse yourself in the drama's lush settings but also a perfect opportunity for a leisurely day outdoors. While you walk, notice how the golden and crimson leaves seem to mimic the intense emotions depicted in the series. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some locals enjoying the calmness of the area, just as the characters do in the moments of peace before the storm.

After soaking in the peaceful vibes of the forest, make your way to The Grill 720, also in Baegun-myeon. This place is beloved for its wood-fired chicken, which is perfect for takeout after a long stroll. The aroma of grilled food might even remind you of the warmth and tension surrounding family meals depicted throughout the show. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, Dukgobee Restaurant is a short distance away. Known for its mouthwatering ribs, it could easily be the perfect end to your day of exploring these filming locations.

While you're in Jecheon, don't skip the nearby Byeoldong Cafe after your meal. It’s a cozy spot, perfect for unwinding with a coffee while you reflect on the drama’s twists and turns. Though it wasn't highlighted in the main scenes, it adds a nice touch to your day, giving you a feel for the local vibe and perhaps some inspiration from the show’s emotional depth.

Lastly, if you venture a little further, consider the Paju Set Studio. Although it’s not as central as the other locations, it's where much of the story’s intense ambiance was crafted. The studio enhances the drama through its carefully designed environments, immersing viewers in the emotional turmoil faced by characters like Ji Sun Woo and Lee Tae Oh. The experience may not be as vivid as the forest, but it offers insight into the creative process behind the scenes.

Every stop in Jecheon holds a piece of The World of the Married's heart. From the calm of Resom Forest to the hearty meals at local eateries, each visit will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the layers of storytelling woven throughout this intense series. Keep your camera ready; you might just find inspiration at every turn, much like the characters did in their quest for love and revenge.

Where to tackle the food in this show

The culinary offerings in The World of the Married add an intriguing layer to the emotional turbulence of this gripping drama. Set against the backdrop of family strife and betrayal, the dining experiences provide a striking contrast to the characters' tumultuous lives.

D Lifestyle Kitchen makes its mark as a meal spot for Ji Sun Woo's family, showcasing a beautiful interior and a healthy low-carb menu that resonates with the show's theme of maintaining appearances. Located at 136 Sejong-daero in Seoul, this restaurant embodies the kind of place you'd take your loved ones for a celebratory dinner, albeit with an undercurrent of tension due to the drama's unfolding events. The sequence where they gather here emphasizes the fragility of their family bond, making it a poignant backdrop.

Then there’s The Grill 720, located close to Resom Forest at 365 Geumbong-ro in Jecheon. Famous for its wood-fired chicken, it's the kind of place that fits perfectly into a weekend outing after traversing the scenic walking trails that dot the area. In one memorable scene, the main characters enjoy a laid-back meal here, which provides both comfort and a sense of normalcy amid the chaos of their lives. The appeal of takeout allows for a seamless picnic setting, enhancing the drama's exploration of family dynamics.

Lastly, Dukgobee Restaurant stands out in Jecheon for its famed ribs. This eatery at 21 Uirim-daero 20-gil beckons food lovers with its reputation and is frequently packed with locals. Though it doesn’t get as much screen time, its mention serves to root the characters in their community, reinforcing the connections they betray.

Each food spot not only provides tasty options but also enriches the narrative with deeper emotional resonance. They serve as informal characters in their own right, grounding the intense themes of love and betrayal in everyday life.

Final verdict: brace yourself for a wild ride

The World of the Married pulls no punches. This drama dives deep into themes of betrayal and revenge with a relentless intensity that keeps you glued to your screen.

From the start, Ji Sun Woo's seemingly perfect life, complete with a supportive husband and a sweet son, shatters when infidelity enters the picture. Kim Hee-ae as Sun Woo delivers a powerful performance, capturing her raw emotions seamlessly. The characters, especially Lee Tae Oh played by Park Hae-joon and the young Yeo Da Kyung portrayed by Han So-hee, add layers to the story, making you really feel the weight of betrayal. Filming locations like the beautiful Resom Forest and the modern Chuncheon City Library add a visual richness that amplifies the drama's tension.

With 16 episodes to binge, it's an emotional rollercoaster that feels almost too real. That said, if you prefer lighter fare, this series isn't for you. But if you want to dive into the dark side of relationships and revel in the complexities of love and vengeance, this show definitely delivers. I keep coming back to those tense confrontations and the eventual unraveling of friendships; they linger long after the credits roll.

Filming locations

Filming locations

Places connected to scenes, checked against source links before they appear publicly.

  1. 01

    Cefalù

    체파루
    Cefalù, PA, Italy

    Cefalù is a romantic coastal town known for its medieval alleys and beautiful sandy beaches. It features a stunning Norman-style cathedral that is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

    Cefalù is a romantic coastal town known as the filming location for the movie Cinema Paradiso. Nestled beneath a massive rocky mountain, it features tranquil sandy beaches and medieval-style alleys, with cafes and shops clustered around the magnificent Norman-style cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, making it a popular destination for tourists.
    blog.naver.com
  2. 02

    Paju Set Studio

    파주 세트장
    163 Guksa-ro, Jeokseong-myeon, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea

    This set studio is another filming location that contributes to the dramatic settings of the series, enhancing the storytelling through its designed environments.

    The filming locations for "The World of the Married" include Pyeongtaek American Village, which captures the atmosphere of the fictional Gosan City, as well as the set in Paju.
    blog.naver.com
  3. 03

    Resom Forest

    리솜포레스트
    365 Geumbong-ro, Baegun-myeon, Jecheon-si, Chungcheongbuk-do충북 제천시 백운면 금봉로 365

    This location served as the backdrop for the luxurious lives of the characters in 'The World of the Married'. It features beautiful views and was used in various scenes throughout the drama. / This location served as a filming site for 'The World of the Married'. It is known for its beautiful views and well-maintained walking paths. / The walking trail at Jeccheon Forest Resort is known for its beautiful autumn foliage and is a filming location for 'The World of the Married'. Visitors can enjoy a scenic walk while taking in the vibrant colors of the leaves. / This location is featured in the drama 'The World of the Married'. It offers a beautiful natural setting for relaxation and leisure activities. / This location is known for its beautiful views and is a popular spot for walks and relaxation. It features a terrace where visitors can enjoy the scenery.

    I heard that the wealthy people in "The World of the Married" lived in the background of Risom Forest.
    blog.naver.com
  4. 04

    Byeoldong Cafe

    별똥카페
    365 Geumbong-ro, Baegun-myeon, Jecheon-si, Chungcheongbuk-do충북 제천시 백운면 금봉로 365

    A cafe located near Resom Forest, mentioned as a spot to visit but not visited by the author.

    Everyone!! The Byeoldong Cafe is in front of Building 52!!! Unfortunately, I had to check out and couldn't goㅠㅠ
    blog.naver.com
  5. 05

    Chuncheon City Library

    춘천시립도서관
    100 Wooseok-ro, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province강원특별자치도 춘천시 우석로 100

    The lobby and exterior of the hospital where Ji Sun-woo worked as the deputy director is actually the Chuncheon City Library, showcasing modern architectural beauty.

    Gajeongsarang Hospital (Chuncheon City Library): The lobby and exterior of the hospital where Ji Seon-woo worked as the vice director is actually the 'Chuncheon City Public Library.' Thanks to its modern architectural beauty, which was completed in 2017, it perfectly embodies the feel of a sophisticated hospital building.
    blog.naver.com
Food guide

Food & places

Restaurants, cafes, markets, and dishes tied to the drama or the reader's visit path.

  1. 01Restaurant

    D Lifestyle Kitchen

    136 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Jung-gu, Seoul, Seoul서울 중구 세종대로 136

    This restaurant is featured in 'The World of the Married' where the main character's family has a meal. It is known for its beautiful interior and healthy low-carb menu.

    The filming location of "The World of the Married," which I enjoyed watching live, stands out the most.
    blog.naver.com
  2. 02Restaurant

    The Grill 720

    Wood-fired Chicken
    365 Geumbong-ro, Baegun-myeon, Jecheon-si, Chungcheongbuk-do충북 제천시 백운면 금봉로 365

    The Grill 720 offers a delicious wood-fired chicken that can be packed for takeout. It's a popular dining spot for visitors after exploring the walking trail.

    You can take out the roasted chicken (32,000 won) at The Grill 720.
    blog.naver.com
  3. 03Restaurant

    Dukgobee Restaurant

    21 Uirim-daero 20-gil, Jecheon-si, Chungcheongbuk-do충북 제천시 의림대로20길 21

    This restaurant is famous for its ribs and is a popular dining spot in Jecheon.

    The famous Another Level pork rib restaurant in Jecheon, Chungbuk, is the main branch of Dukkobi Restaurant (Blue Ribbon Restaurant/Weekday Waiting/Group Reservations Available).
    blog.naver.com
Discovery

More to explore

Step beyond this drama — explore filming sites, food spots, and related titles across the catalog.

Details

Production

Broadcast details, runtime, language, and key production credits.

Country
South Korea
Original language
Korean
Episode runtime
82 min
Spoken languages
Korean
Production companies
  • 소금빛미디어(주)소금빛미디어(주)
  • JTBC StudiosJTBC Studios
Creators
Kang Eun-kyung강은경
Mo Wan-il모완일
Directors
Mo Wan-il모완일
Writers
Joo Hyun

Source: TMDB

Characters

Cast & characters

Key roles, performers, and character context for quick scanning.

Source: TMDB

Actors

Lead actors

Lead performer biographies and notable credits.

Kim Hee-ae

Kim Hee-aeas Ji Seon-u

김희애
1967-04-23 · Jeju, South Korea

Kim Hee-ae is a celebrated South Korean actress born on April 23, 1967. She made her debut in the entertainment industry in 1982 as a model and quickly transitioned into acting, becoming a prominent figure in both film and television. Over her extensive career, she has received significant recognition, including five awards for her performances in television dramas. Known for her leading roles in popular series such as "Sons and Daughters" (1992), "Perfect Love" (2003), and "The World of the Married" (2020), Kim has captivated audiences with her compelling portrayals. Her talent has earned her multiple accolades, including two prestigious Daesang (Grand Prize) awards and four Best Actress awards at the Baeksang Arts Awards. In 2020, she was honored as Gallup Korea's Television Actor of the Year, solidifying her status as one of the leading actresses in the South Korean entertainment industry.

Han So-hee

Han So-heeas Yeo Da-gyeong

한소희
1993-11-18 · Ulsan, South Korea

Han So-hee, born Lee So-hee on November 18, 1993, is a prominent South Korean actress known for her compelling performances in both supporting and lead roles. She embarked on her acting journey with notable appearances in several television series, including "Money Flower" (2017), "100 Days My Prince" (2018), and "Abyss" (2019). These early roles established her as a rising talent in the K-drama industry. Her breakthrough came with the 2020 hit series "The World of the Married," where she captivated audiences and critics alike. Following this success, Han continued to showcase her versatility in lead roles in "Nevertheless" (2021) and "My Name" (2021), demonstrating her ability to tackle diverse characters. As of 2023, she stars in the highly anticipated series "Gyeongseong Creature," further solidifying her status as a leading actress in contemporary Korean television. Han So-hee's journey reflects her dedication to her craft and her growth as an influential figure in the entertainment industry.

Notable credits on this site
Park Sun-young

Park Sun-youngas Ko Ye-rim

박선영
1976-08-21 · Muju, North Jeolla, South Korea

Park Sun-young is a prominent South Korean actress born on August 21, 1976. She has garnered recognition for her diverse roles across both film and television. Park first gained attention for her performance in the film "Show Show Show" (2003) and has since built a robust body of work that showcases her talent and versatility. Her television career features several notable series, including "Truth" (2000), "Oh Feel Young" (2004), and "18 vs. 29" (2005). Park's roles in "Goodbye to Sadness" and "The 101st Proposal," both released in 2005 and 2006 respectively, further solidified her status in the industry. In the years that followed, she continued to captivate audiences with performances in "My Too Perfect Sons" (2009) and "Crazy Love" (2013). With a career spanning over two decades, Park Sun-young remains a respected figure in South Korean entertainment.

Notable credits on this site
Streaming

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Streaming data via JustWatch through TMDB.

Episode guide

Episodes

Episode stills, air dates, runtimes, and summaries.

  1. Infidelity
    Ep 1Infidelity
    2020-03-27 · 88 min

    Ji Seon-u's marital bliss shatters when she spots an unfamiliar strand of hair on Lee Tae-o's scarf. Suspicious, she tails him after work one day.

  2. The Anger Builds
    Ep 2The Anger Builds
    2020-03-28 · 84 min

    After making a discovery that shakes her to the core, Seon-u is thrown into a dilemma. Yeo Da-gyeong's visit to her hospital worsens matters.

  3. Legal Advice
    Ep 3Legal Advice
    2020-04-03 · 78 min

    A piece of unexpected news sends Tae-o running to Da-gyeong. Taking advice from a divorce lawyer, Seon-u begins gathering important evidence.

  4. Red Lipstick
    Ep 4Red Lipstick
    2020-04-04 · 82 min

    Min Hyeon-seo deals with the return of her boyfriend, who wants to cash in on her efforts. Son Je-hyeok puts forth a risky proposition to Seon-u.

  5. The Unexpected Dinner
    Ep 5The Unexpected Dinner
    2020-04-10 · 88 min

    While Tae-o tries to save his affair, Seon-u learns more of his secrets. They head to Da-gyeong's parents' home, where an uneasy dinner ensues.

  6. It’s All Your Fault
    Ep 6It’s All Your Fault
    2020-04-11 · 81 min

    Seon-u and Tae-o's fight turns nasty as they battle over divorce papers and for custody of Lee Jun-yeong, who struggles to process their separation.

  7. I’m Back
    Ep 7I’m Back
    2020-04-17 · 81 min

    Tae-o and Da-gyeong come back to town and throw an extravagant housewarming party. While everyone gossips about the couple, Seon-u grows anxious.

  8. I’m Not Running
    Ep 8I’m Not Running
    2020-04-18 · 74 min

    Seon-u is spooked by a series of strange incidents at home. In addition, she finds out that Jun-yeong has been hiding something from her.

  9. How Much Do You Trust Your Husband?
    Ep 9How Much Do You Trust Your Husband?
    2020-04-24 · 81 min

    Da-kyeong becomes wary of Tae-o's behavior. Before an important meeting with Yeo Byeong-gyu, Seon-u receives a panic-inciting package.

  10. The Runaway
    Ep 10The Runaway
    2020-04-25 · 86 min

    A series of incriminating photos threatens Ko Ye-rim's marriage. Reeling from a betrayal, Seon-u seeks retaliation by paying Park In-gyu a visit.

  11. Do You Think I Pushed Him?
    Ep 11Do You Think I Pushed Him?
    2020-05-01 · 77 min

    After Tae-o comes home in a questionable state, Da-gyeong snoops through his clothes. Hyeon-seo is convinced she knows the culprit's identity.

  12. Boarding School
    Ep 12Boarding School
    2020-05-02 · 84 min

    When Tae-o is taken by police for questioning, Seon-u does what she thinks is right for her family. Da-gyeong urges Jun-yeong to make a choice.

  13. A Fight at School
    Ep 13A Fight at School
    2020-05-08 · 75 min

    Seon-u is in the midst of considering job openings outside the city when she gets word that Jun-yeong has been involved in a fight at school.

  14. Sun Woo Leaves Gosan
    Ep 14Sun Woo Leaves Gosan
    2020-05-09 · 82 min

    With both Jun-yeong and her job gone, Seon-u finds herself completely alone. When she goes missing, Kim Yun-gi and Tae-o rush to find her.

  15. Da Kyung’s Last Chance
    Ep 15Da Kyung’s Last Chance
    2020-05-15 · 93 min

    Nearing the end of her rope, Da-gyeong demands the truth from Tae-o. Soon after, Seon-u shows her the upsetting reality of Tae-o's patterns.

  16. Back to Gosan
    Ep 16Back to Gosan
    2020-05-16 · 80 min

    Seon-u gradually returns to her normal life. One day, she comes home to find that Jun-yeong has disappeared — and all that's left is a note from Tae-o.

Source: TMDB

Media

Videos

Trailers, OST, interviews, making clips, reviews, and recommendations.

Trailers & teasers

OST

Interviews & making-of

Reviews & recommendations

Source: YouTube

Discovery

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Source: TMDB