It’s not every day that women in their 40s take the lead in a K-drama. But ‘Don’t Call Me Ma’am’ — known in Korean as ‘다음생은 없으니까’ (literally, ‘Because There Is No Next Life’) — puts three women over 40 at the center of the story. Starring Kim Hee-seon, Han Hye-jin, and Jin Seo-yeon, the drama follows three friends who are exhausted by the daily routine of running their homes while juggling work pressures, all while trying to build a happier, more fulfilling life.
Cho Na-jeong, portrayed by Kim Hee-seon, is a former top home-shopping host who is trying to make a comeback after years of being a housewife. Meanwhile, Han Hye-jin’s character, Koo Ju-yeong, appears to have a perfect life on the surface, but privately, she struggles to have a child with her asexual husband. Lee Il-ri (Jin Seo-yeon), a dedicated deputy editor-in-chief, has achieved success at work but is still waiting for her own happily-ever-after.
With heartfelt performances and a strong plot, ‘Don’t Call Me Ma’am’ delivers a moving portrayal of friendship, ambition, and the realities of life in your 40s.
In an exclusive interview with Namaste Hallyu, the cast of ‘Don’t Call Me Ma’am’ opens up about the themes portrayed in the drama, their characters, and their heartfelt message for Indian fans.
Namaste Hallyu: Your drama is titled ‘Don’t Call Me Ma’am’. What does this title represent for your character and their journey?
Kim Hee-seon: I believe the [literal] title ‘Because There Is No Next Life’ carries the message, “Don’t give up on who you are right now.” Na-jeong’s story is ultimately a journey of rebuilding herself in the present.
Han Hye-jin: I believe it means that we should be satisfied with who we are now, find joy in it, and not be afraid to take on new challenges.
The [literal] title ‘Because There Is No Next Life’ implies that my character must finally face the emotions and relationships she’s been putting off and avoiding. It’s also the phrase that best encapsulates Lee Il-ri’s entire journey.
– Jin Seo-yeon
NH: The drama appears to explore women’s struggles and experiences in professional settings—do you feel your character resonates with your own personal experiences in the workplace?
KHS: There are many similarities in the difficulties women face in society, regardless of nationality. Throughout my long career, I’ve learned how to maintain balance amid shifting expectations and perspectives. Because of that, Na-jeong’s worries and courage naturally resonated with me on a deep level.
JSY: The challenges women encounter at work often share common threads, even across different countries and cultures. I’ve also had moments when I wondered, “Should I really keep pushing through this?” and that emotion felt very close to my character. Because of those experiences, I was able to portray Lee Il-ri’s realistic exhaustion with more honesty.
I think I’m similar to Ju-young in the way she can’t easily open up about her struggles or concerns to others. I, too, haven’t always felt free from external judgment and expectations.
– Han Hye-jin
NH: Was there any dialogue from the script that stayed with you even after shooting ended?
KHS: The line that stayed with me the most is from the first episode: “My heart still feels young, but the world calls me forty. By this age, I thought life would feel easier… but I’m still stumbling and getting lost.” It’s Na-jeong’s narration, and I think it perfectly captures the core message of our drama.
HHJ: “Someone once said to me, ‘Don’t go through life feeling resentful and wronged—go through it with a gentler, apologetic heart.’” It is a reminder to let go of bitterness, not to constantly feel like a victim, and to approach life with emotional softness instead of defensiveness.
NH: If you had to describe this drama to Indian fans in one sentence, what would you say? Please send a special message to your fans in India!
HHJ: Live a life without regrets. Let’s all challenge ourselves without fear, and not cling too tightly to the outcomes of those challenges.
JSY: If I were to describe this drama in one sentence, I’d say: “A story about finding the courage to start your life again.” To our Indian fans, I hope this series allows you to discover a bit of your own story within it, and that it offers you even a small moment of emotional lightness.
It’s the most realistic and heartfelt story about embracing the second chapter of life. I’d [also] like to express my gratitude to all our Indian fans. Your love and support always give me great strength.
– Kim Hee-seon
With strong performances, honest writing, and characters full of heart, ‘Don’t Call Me Ma’am’ captures the realities of life, love, and starting over in a way that feels both timeless and deeply human.
You can catch all episodes of ‘Don’t Call Me Ma’am’ exclusively on Channel K via Amazon Prime Video India.
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