Pop Corner: My Youth Episode 4 Recap: Actors, Cameras, and Contrived Plots

K-Drama
Song Joong-ki looks over on the final filiming day of their documentary in My Youth episode 4

My Youth episode 4 takes viewers deeper into Hae’s story by blending meaningful flashbacks with present-day developments.

My Youth episode 4 explores his early years as a child actor, showing how his mother played a pivotal role in discovering his talent and guiding his career—until he eventually chose to walk away from fame. In the present timeline, Hae reunites with former child actress Tae-rin for a documentary project that brings unresolved emotions and memories to the surface.

However, during the final day of filming in a remote location, a series of unexpected events shifts the focus. What should have been a simple wrap-up turns into a turning point, leading Hae and Je-yeon to spend more time together than either of them planned—setting the stage for emotional tension and quiet realizations.

Trigger warning: The episode mentions suicide.

In My Youth episode 4, Song Joong-ki and Lee Joo-myoung reunite for the filming of the documentary for the two child actors.

Also Read: Pop Corner: My Youth Episode 3 Recap: Two Moms, Two Sisters, Two Brothers

My Youth Episode 4 Recap: Birth of a Child Star

Episode 4 opens at the sea. A film shoot is underway, but production halts when a staff member reports that the child actor is sick. Desperate for a replacement, the staff spots young Hae and asks for his parents’ number. He gets cast, and the director takes a liking to him.

Behind the scenes, Hae’s mother appears plain. She soon transforms into a glamorous figure and announces that she will become his manager.

In Seoul, young Hae wins Best Actor and gains endorsements. He also joins the sitcom Beat and Bebop, though it ends quickly as he grows up too fast. Hae’s mother meets with directors for new opportunities.

Back in the present, Je-yeon discusses Hae’s contract with Pil-doo. She later visits the flower shop and meets Hae’s father. They introduce themselves just as Hae arrives, and Je-yeon presses him to sign the contract.  After some time, Nu-ri shows up at the filming location demanding answers.

Also Read: Pop Corner: My Youth Episode 2 Recap: Responsibilities Before Romance

From Sitcom to Documentary

After a diving session, Tae-rin encounters two scammers. Seok-joo steps in, pretending to be her lover to drive them away. The two walk together, both unknowingly heading toward Hae’s flower shop, where they eventually bond with Hae. Seok-joo brings drinks, and they invite Je-yeon to join.

At Je-yeon’s office, Bang Han-na resigns and discusses it with her. Meanwhile, Seok-joo tutors Nu-ri at her home, while Hae borrows her luggage. Preparing for a shoot by the sea, Hae packs his bag.

For the documentary, Hae and Tae-rin build sandcastles together and splash water at each other. Je-yeon quietly photographs them. When filming wraps, the team gathers trash before moving to a farm for a segment.

When a truck driver is needed, both Je-yeon and Hae volunteer, but Hae persuades her to let him drive. That night, the crew plans a feast. Tae-rin declines because of her diet, and Je-yeon stays in solidarity. Hae sneaks food into Je-yeon’s mouth anyway.

Song Joong-ki offers to drive the truck in My Youth episode 4.

Contrived, Romantic Plots

The next morning, the team prepares to plant tree saplings on a hill, but the landowner forbids filming, saying planting is fine but not shooting. The crew packs up, but Je-yeon volunteers to stay behind to handle the receipts, while Hae remains to plant the saplings. By afternoon, Je-yeon attempts to catch the ferry, but service is cancelled due to a storm.

Forced to regroup, she and Hae search for lodging. All inns are full except for one last room, which they argue over before resolving it with rock-paper-scissors. Hae wins, so Je-yeon is supposed to sleep in the car, but they end up spending the evening together.

Hae then casually asks if they should sleep together. Je-yeon briefly agrees before refusing, though eventually they fall asleep beside each other. She wakes up spooning him, panics, and kicks him away while pretending to dream.

Later, as they try to reach the planting site, Seok-joo’s car runs out of gas. They reflect on how contrived the situation feels, like a scripted scene. (Indeed.)

Je-yeon asks about the meaning of the saplings. Hae explains they symbolize “a heart that yearns for a friend, now parted.” The episode ends with the two of them sharing a kiss.

You Might Also Like: Pop Corner: My Youth Episode 5 Recap: Complexities and Uncertainties

My Youth Episode 4 Reaction

After four episodes, it’s clear that My Youth shines the most in how it weaves flashbacks seamlessly into present-day scenes. The transitions feel natural and emotionally grounded, giving depth to each character’s story.

However, where the drama falls short is in its background music. During moments that should make viewers swoon or feel a surge of emotion, the soundtrack often misses the mark—dulling what could have been truly moving or memorable scenes, like that kissing scene.

My Youth Episodes 5 and 6 Release Date and Details

Aired on September 19, 2025, My Youth episodes 5 and 6 reveal what happens after Hae and Je-yeon’s kiss. These episodes also explore the budding romance between Seok-joo and Tae-rin, as well as the misunderstandings between Chan and Pil-doo.

What do you think of My Youth episode 4?

Also Read: Pop Corner: My Youth Episode 1 Recap: Fame, Flowers and First Love


Source: JTBC, Viu Philippines

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