Mother and Mom

"Mother and Mom" (Korean: 라이딩 인생, also known as "Riding Life") is a heartwarming and humorous 2025 South Korean family drama that aired for 8 episodes on ENA (March 3–25) and streamed on Genie TV.

Plot Synopsis

Set in the academic hub of Daechi‑dong, the story revolves around three generations of women entrenched in Korea’s intense private education culture.

Lee Jung‑eun (Jeon Hye‑jin), a driven beauty‑industry marketer and working mum, is determined to secure her 7‑year‑old daughter's entry into a top English hagwon.

She enlists her mother, Yoon Ji‑ah (Jo Min‑su), a single mum-turned-art therapist, to chauffeur Seo‑yoon around – a task that becomes the catalyst for intergenerational conflict and unexpected bonding.

Cast & Characters

Main Cast

• Lee Jung‑eun (Jeon Hye‑jin): Overcommitted working mother grappling with perfectionism.
• Yoon Ji‑ah (Jo Min‑su): Jung‑eun’s mother, rediscovering herself as she helps raise her granddaughter.Hong Jae‑man (Jeon Seok‑ho): Jung‑eun’s husband, a home‑shopping MD who deeply cares for family despite workplace struggles.
• Lee Young‑wook (Jung Jin‑young): An English professor whose life intersects with Ji‑ah during the commuting “rides”.
• Hong Seo‑yoon (Kim Sa‑rang): The daughter caught in the academic race.

Reception

The show earned respectable Nielsen viewerships:

Started at 1.2 %, climbed to 2.63 % by episode 6, and ended strong around 3 %, even topping its slot on the finale night.

Critics praised its realistic depiction of "mom‑wars" among Daechi‑dong parents, highlighting a balanced mix of empathy and humor.

Fun Facts & Highlights

A light-hearted yet piercing exploration of:

• Generational conflict: Traditional vs. modern parenting styles clash and reconcile.
• Academic pressure: A critical look at South Korea’s entrance-exam culture in preschool.
• Self‑rediscovery: Both mother and grandmother are on a journey of personal growth.

Final Thoughts

A refreshing portrayal of modern motherhood and elder‑daughter dynamics in metropolitan Korea.

Light comedy mixed with genuine emotional depth.

Strong performances: Jeon Hye‑jin and Jo Min‑su bring warmth, humor, and authenticity to their roles.

Where to Watch

Broadcast Schedule

Aired on ENA.

Streaming Access

Available for streaming on Genie TV and OnDemandKorea.

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