'열혈사제2' Hits 15.2% Ratings; Kim Nam-gil Emerges as Strong Candidate for Best Actor Amid Shocking 'Burning Virgin Mary' Ending

The SBS drama '열혈사제2' (The Fiery Priest 2) aired its sixth episode on November 23, achieving a peak rating of 15.2% according to Nielsen Korea, marking a new high for the series. The show continues to dominate the Friday-Saturday drama slot with nationwide ratings of 12.8% and 12.6% in the capital region. Additionally, it secured the top spot in the 2049 demographic with a rating of 3.8%, outperforming all other programs aired on Saturday.

In this episode, Kim Hae-il (played by Kim Nam-gil) grapples with the unsettling presence of hidden demons in the world, spurred by the provocations of the formidable villain Seong-jun (성준). The narrative unfolds as Kim Hae-il, along with Gu Dae-young (김성균) and Gu Ja-young (김형서), tracks down a drug packaging warehouse, where they manage to apprehend drug couriers, although they fail to uncover the identity of the true boss behind the operation.

The plot thickens when Kim Hae-il receives a distressing call regarding the death of Grandma Song (변중희). Upon arriving at her home, he is horrified to find her lifeless body. Meanwhile, Chae-dong (서범준) is devastated by the news, and Kim Hae-il grows suspicious of the circumstances surrounding her death, particularly the foul smell of gasoline and the strange marks on her body, leading him to demand a thorough investigation.

As the story progresses, Kim Hae-il recalls Chae-dong's concerns about Grandma Song's workplace and decides to investigate further. However, when the police's drug special team arrives, they only find cheap pharmaceutical ingredients, prompting their withdrawal. Meanwhile, Nam Du-heon (서현우) discovers that the person behind the drug factory is none other than Police Chief Park (정기섭), who has been monitoring their activities.

In a dramatic turn, Kim Hae-il and his team devise an undercover plan to infiltrate the drug cartel, spurred by the discovery of a wanted poster featuring a lookalike of Gu Dae-young. As they prepare for their mission, Kim Hae-il fervently prays for guidance, but his moment of reflection is interrupted by a sudden onset of tinnitus, leading to a collapse after taking medication.

Simultaneously, Park Cheong-jang, who had fallen asleep in the backseat of a car, is dealt with by Kim Hong-sik's (김홍식) subordinate. The episode culminates in a shocking scene where Kim Hae-il witnesses a statue of the Virgin Mary engulfed in flames, while Kim Hong-sik ominously remarks, "Welcome to a taste of hell, Father." This intense ending leaves viewers in suspense and eager for the next episode.

Fans have reacted enthusiastically, commenting on the emergence of villains and expressing their anticipation for the unfolding plot. With Kim Nam-gil being considered a strong contender for the Best Actor award at the upcoming year-end ceremonies, the series continues to captivate audiences.

The next episode of '열혈사제2' is set to air on November 29 at 10 PM.