Heaven's Beauty Episode 4: A Thrilling Escape from Hell and a Shocking Ending

## The Warmth Between Hae-sook and Somi

Episode 4 of 'Heaven's Beauty' begins with a heartwarming scene showing Somi (played by Han Ji-min) taking care of Hae-sook (Kim Hye-ja). The relationship between these two characters has evolved significantly since their initial encounters. Somi attentively prepares meals for Hae-sook and offers emotional comfort, creating a cozy atmosphere that contrasts with the tension from previous episodes.

This episode also briefly touches on Nak-jun's (Son Suk-ku) past popularity, revealing more of his human side despite his failed film debut. These small character moments add depth to the narrative, allowing viewers to connect more deeply with the protagonists as they navigate their afterlife experiences.

Meanwhile, Hae-sook finds herself increasingly confused by Somi's mannerisms and habits, which strikingly resemble those of Young-ae. This similarity triggers both nostalgia and suspicion in Hae-sook, adding another layer of complexity to their relationship.

## The Mystery of Hell Escapees

One of the most intriguing developments in episode 4 is the introduction of hell escapees. The drama takes a darker turn as a public alert is issued throughout heaven to capture these fugitives. Nak-jun warns that Somi might be in danger, but Hae-sook becomes increasingly convinced that Somi is actually Young-ae.

The narrative expands to include the stories of pets who have crossed the rainbow bridge. Abused abandoned dogs express anger at the absence of their human abusers in hell, and they join forces with the center director to punish animal abusers. Their exceptional sense of smell suggests they will play a crucial role in tracking hell escapees in future episodes.

This subplot adds a fascinating dimension to the afterlife world-building of the series, suggesting that justice extends beyond human concerns to include the treatment of animals. The cat Sonya (played by Choi Hee-jin) also develops a touching bond with Somi, adding warmth to the narrative.

## Hae-sook's Spiritual Journey

Seeking solace for her troubled mind, Hae-sook visits a church where she attempts to connect with the pastor (Ryu Deok-hwan). Their conversation about the church's challenges provides a moment of reflection, though Hae-sook remains distracted by thoughts of Somi and Young-ae.

In a pivotal scene, Hae-sook discovers at the civil affairs office that Young-ae's address is registered as 'hell.' This revelation intensifies her suspicion that Somi might actually be Young-ae, creating a powerful emotional conflict for Hae-sook who is torn between hope and disbelief.

The spiritual themes of the drama deepen in this episode, exploring concepts of forgiveness, redemption, and the possibility of second chances even after death. These philosophical questions are presented through intimate character moments rather than heavy-handed exposition, allowing viewers to engage with profound ideas through emotional storytelling.

## The Hostage Crisis

The episode reaches its climax with the dramatic appearance of Park Cheol-jin, who is revealed to be a hell escapee. The tension escalates rapidly as he takes Hae-sook hostage in the church, creating the most dangerous situation in the series thus far.

Nak-jun, determined to save his wife, convinces the center director to let him enter the church. In a powerful scene, he declares, 'My wife is in there,' highlighting his unwavering commitment to Hae-sook despite the supernatural circumstances they find themselves in.

The center director delivers a profound message to Park Cheol-jin about the meaning of life and death, adding philosophical weight to this tense standoff. Eventually, Nak-jun successfully persuades Park Cheol-jin by delivering a scarf knitted by his wife, touching the escapee's heart with this symbol of enduring love.

Learning that his wife is in heaven, Park Cheol-jin abandons his desperate actions. This resolution emphasizes the drama's central theme that connections between loved ones transcend even the boundaries between heaven and hell.

## The Shocking Revelation

As Hae-sook and Nak-jun return home, they are startled to find Somi hiding in their house. The episode concludes with a shocking revelation that Young-ae is actually in hell, leaving viewers with a powerful cliffhanger.

This twist completely subverts expectations and opens up intriguing questions: Why is Young-ae in hell? What is Somi's true identity if she isn't Young-ae? How will this revelation affect Hae-sook and Nak-jun's relationship with Somi?

The preview for episode 5 adds further intrigue by revealing that Somi is indeed not Young-ae, Hae-sook will accumulate five 'grape seeds' (apparently a measure of sins) that will send her to hell, and Nak-jun plans to follow his wife to hell. These developments promise to take the story in bold new directions, challenging the characters' understanding of their afterlife and each other.

## Visual Storytelling and Music

Episode 4 continues the series' tradition of exceptional visual storytelling. The contrast between the warm, golden-hued scenes of domestic life and the cold, blue-tinged sequences during the hostage crisis effectively communicates the emotional temperature of each moment.

The drama's soundtrack, particularly the theme song 'Heaven's Beauty' performed by Lim Young-woong, continues to enhance the emotional impact of key scenes. In previous episodes, this song accompanied Hae-sook's discovery of her husband's death and Nak-jun's reflections on their shared past. The music serves as an emotional bridge between characters and moments, unifying the narrative through its recurring melody.

Lim Young-woong's sensitive vocal expression perfectly complements the drama's storytelling, offering viewers a warm consolation that resonates with the themes of love, loss, and reunion. The song has been well-received by audiences, reaching as high as #3 on Melon's TOP100 real-time chart upon its release.

## Audience Reception and Ratings

The drama continues to perform well in ratings, maintaining steady viewership numbers. The first three episodes recorded ratings of 5.8%, 6.1%, and 6.0% respectively, making it the top-rated show on JTBC and indicating a successful launch.

Viewers have particularly praised the drama for its warm reinterpretation of the afterlife, the outstanding performances by the cast (especially Kim Hye-ja and Son Suk-ku), the emotional resonance of the OST, and the universal themes of family, connection, and love that transcend even death.

Online communities and social media have been buzzing with theories about Somi's true identity and Young-ae's presence in hell, demonstrating the audience's deep engagement with the mystery elements of the plot. Many viewers have also expressed appreciation for the drama's balance of fantasy elements with genuine human emotions, creating a unique viewing experience that stands out in the current television landscape.

## What to Expect Next

As 'Heaven's Beauty' moves into its fifth episode, several compelling storylines are set to develop. The revelation about Young-ae being in hell will likely drive much of the narrative forward, potentially leading to a journey that crosses the boundaries between heaven and hell.

Hae-sook's accumulation of 'grape seeds' suggests a moral or spiritual challenge ahead, perhaps forcing her to confront aspects of her past or make difficult choices about her future. Nak-jun's determination to follow his wife to hell reinforces the drama's central theme of enduring love while promising high-stakes emotional drama.

The identity of Somi remains one of the most intriguing mysteries. If she isn't Young-ae, who is she, and why has she entered Hae-sook and Nak-jun's lives? This question will likely be central to upcoming episodes.

With its blend of fantasy elements, emotional depth, and philosophical questions about life, death, and what comes after, 'Heaven's Beauty' continues to establish itself as one of the most thought-provoking and heartwarming dramas of 2025.