The Glory isn’t just another K-drama — it’s a deep, emotional, and often painful journey through bullying, trauma, and revenge. Written by Kim Eun-sook and starring Song Hye-kyo as Moon Dong-eun, the series captured global attention for its raw storytelling and layered performances.
1. Introduction
The The Glory ending explained here will guide you through the final episodes, breaking down the fates of every major character, the symbolism, and the meaning behind Moon Dong-eun’s ultimate choice.
If you enjoy K-drama finale breakdowns, you might also like our guides for Big Mouth Korean Drama Ending Explained.
2. Recap of the Story (Spoiler-Free)
Moon Dong-eun was brutally bullied in high school by Park Yeon-jin and her elite group of friends. The abuse left scars — both physical and emotional — that shaped her entire life.
Years later, Dong-eun returns, not for reconciliation, but for carefully planned revenge. Over two parts, The Glory blends psychological warfare, emotional confrontation, and moral dilemmas, setting up a finale that’s both satisfying and thought-provoking.
3. What Happens in the Finale
The The Glory ending explained starts with Dong-eun’s revenge plan reaching its peak:
- She exposes her bullies one by one, destroying their careers, relationships, and reputations.
- Park Yeon-jin is publicly disgraced and eventually arrested for murder and abuse.
- Joo Yeo-jeong, Dong-eun’s love interest, becomes her partner in delivering justice.
4. The Fates of Key Characters
Moon Dong-eun:
Her mission complete, she contemplates suicide but ultimately decides to live, finding purpose in helping others seek justice.
Park Yeon-jin:
Ends in prison, stripped of power and status, living with the same fear she once inflicted.
Joo Yeo-jeong:
Steps into the role of executioner, beginning his own revenge mission for his father’s killer.
Ha Do-yeong:
Chooses to protect his daughter, cutting ties with Yeon-jin entirely.
Kang Hyeon-nam:
Escapes her abusive husband and starts a new life — her redemption arc complete.
5. Dong-eun’s Final Choice Explained
Originally, Dong-eun intended to end her life once revenge was achieved. But Yeo-jeong convinces her otherwise. The The Glory ending explained shows that instead of disappearing, Dong-eun chooses to continue fighting injustice, now as part of a team with Yeo-jeong.
This choice transforms her story from one of destruction to one of purpose.
6. Symbolism in the Ending
- Scars: A constant reminder that pain never fully fades.
- Fire & Water: Represent purification and rebirth — burning away the past and cleansing the soul.
- The School: Now a symbol of societal failure, a place where cruelty was allowed to grow.
7. Themes in the Finale
- Revenge vs Healing: Can revenge truly heal, or does it keep wounds open?
- Justice vs Law: When the legal system fails, personal justice becomes the only path.
- Survivorship: Choosing life after trauma is its own form of victory.
8. Director and Writer Intent
Writer Kim Eun-sook shared that The Glory’s ending is about survivors reclaiming control. The romance between Dong-eun and Yeo-jeong isn’t a typical love story — it’s about shared pain and mutual healing.
9. Fan Reactions
The The Glory ending explained has been widely praised for its completeness and emotional payoff. Many fans called it a “perfect revenge drama” that avoids glamorizing violence while still delivering satisfaction.
Some debated whether Dong-eun’s new path is healthy or just another form of obsession a conversation that shows how deeply the finale resonated.
The Glory closes its revenge saga with dignity, closure, and emotional weight. The The Glory ending explained makes it clear while revenge can bring justice, it’s the choice to live beyond pain that defines true victory.
FAQs
1. Does Dong-eun survive in the end?
Yes, she chooses to live and continue helping others seek justice.
2. Why does Yeo-jeong join Dong-eun’s mission?
They share a common purpose — to punish those the law cannot.
3. What happened to Yeon-jin’s daughter?
Ha Do-yeong takes her away to protect her from her mother’s crimes.
4. Is The Glory based on a true story?
It’s inspired by real school violence cases in South Korea, but the characters are fictional.
5. Will there be a Season 2 or spin-off?
No official confirmation yet, but the ending leaves room for more stories.
