The Dream Life of Mr. Kim episode 3-4 recap: Nak-su's desperate attempts to save himself backfired 

The Dream Life of Mr. Kim Kdrama
Mr. Kim's life starts to fall apart (Image via Instagram @jtbcdrama)

The Dream Life of Mr. Kim is finally streaming on Netflix, focusing on the story of Kim Nak-su. Right from the beginning, it's clear that Nak-su is a middle-aged man who spent years climbing the corporate ladder and has now secured a great position at his office.

He has been loyal to the employer and for Nak-su, a perfect life is when you have a good job, family, an apartment, and respect from others. Luckily, he has it all. In his 25 years of experience in the corporate world, Kim Nak-su believes that he's living the ideal life.

Then it all falls apart at once. He unexpectedly loses the job that has shaped his entire sense of self. With his career gone and his household starting to wobble, he’s suddenly confronted with a frightening question he has never had to face: Who is he when the status and routine disappear?

Not only this, the latest episodes 3 and 4 also offer glimpses into Mr. Kim's past. His flaws and decisions from the past still impact his life, especially Nak-su's career and family.


The Dream Life of Mr. Kim episode 3 reveals how Nak-su and Ha-jin met

Episode 3 of The Dream Life of Mr. Kim takes viewers back in the past, to when Nak-su and Ha-jin had an uncomfortable date. Ha-jin worked in a credit card company and was full of charm and energy.

However, Nak-su couldn't hide his anxiousness and fumbles during the date so badly that Ha-jin thinks about escaping from him. Nak-su then chases after her and convinces Han-jin to use the date as an attempt.

They finally start a conversation, and Nak-su opens up about being shy and focused on work. His honesty impressed Ha-jin, and she was flattered by him. Little did Nak-su know that he was being manipulative and insecure from the start.

Also Read: “I’m waiting for the call”: KPop Demon Hunters sequel gets a hopeful update from Rei Ami


Ha-jin doubts she might have spoiled Nak-su in The Dream Life of Mr. Kim

A glimpse into the series (Image via Instagram @jtbcdrama)
A glimpse into the series (Image via Instagram @jtbcdrama)

In the present, the aftermath of Nak-su’s explosive argument affects his household. As seen in the episode of The Dream Life of Mr. Kim, Su-gyeom decides to step away for a while, and Ha-jin admits she may have spoiled Nak-su while trying to make their home a safe space for him.

Meanwhile, at ACT, the company is in crisis after a YouTuber named It-Boy exposes a major issue. Since Nak-su has already caused a lot of trouble, he prefers staying quiet. And when a recording that could save him emerged, Nak-su ended up making another poor decision.

He suggested the recording must be deleted, once again proving that he has often made wrong decisions, even for himself. His reckless behaviour damages ACT's image, and the YouTuber enjoys the drama.

To make it worse, Nak-su even tried to take credit for others’ work. As a result, ACT lost contracts, ultimately contributing to the company's downfall.

Also Read: Would You Marry Me episode 9: Release date news, time, streaming details, and more


The Dream Life of Mr. Kim episode 4 recap: Nak-su must face reality and accept his flaws

The employees tried to save the company (Image via Instagram @jtbcdrama)
The employees tried to save the company (Image via Instagram @jtbcdrama)

Episode 4 of The Dream Life of Mr. Kim reveals the old times when Nak-su and Jeong-tae were close colleagues at the Hwaunjang Inn. Nak-su had even coached Jeong-tae and surprisingly, Jeong-tae rose to the ranks faster than his coach.

This is the reason why Nak-su started maintaining distance from Jeong-tae, and the two don't get along in the present. When Nak-su felt cornered, he sought advice from his idle friend Nompaengi, and Nompaengi bluntly told Nak-su that Jeong-tae’s loyalty won’t save him now.

On the other side, Ha-jin is determined to pass the real estate exam. Later, Nak-su tries to convince Jeong-tae by inviting him for dinner. Ha-jin gets frustrated with his desperate attempts to save himself and refuses to help him.

Nak-su then brings food for his team and tries to manipulate the current situation. Later on the work-related trip with Sung-gu, Nak-su reflects on older times and shares his developing anxieties about aging and loneliness, without realizing that Sung-gu is recording the entire conversation.

Meanwhile, in the episode of The Dream Life of Mr. Kim, Jeong-tae faces scrutiny as photos of him and Nak-su reach the Fair Trade Commission. And by the end of the episode, Nak-su is terminated from his position. All his attempts were wasted and he ended up being demoted.


Also Read: Love K-dramas? These 5 Filipino shows will give you the same feels

Continue exploring SoapCentral for regular updates on your favorite TV shows.

Edited by Alisha Khan