The stakes are higher than ever in Episode 8 of tvN’s weekend drama Ask the Stars also known as “When the Stars Gossip,” as veteran astronauts Eve Kim (Gong Hyo-jin), Park Dong-ah (Kim Joo-hun), and Kang Tae-hee (Lee El) face a heart-pounding dilemma: stick to protocol or risk everything to save a life. Set to air on January 26th at 9:20 PM, this episode promises to deliver intense drama, emotional confrontations, and a race against time in the vast expanse of space.
A Crisis in Orbit
The episode picks up from the cliffhanger of Episode 7, where the space station housing tourist Kong Ryong (Lee Min-ho) and the crew was struck by a massive debris cloud, putting everyone in grave danger. Under the leadership of Commander Eve Kim and Ground Control Center Chief Kang Tae-hee, the space scientists managed to evacuate safely aboard the astronaut transport ship, Crew Scorpion. However, in a shocking twist, Kong Ryong is left behind in the damaged space station after attempting to retrieve an incubator containing secretly fertilized human embryos.
As debris continues to threaten the station, the astronauts are faced with an impossible choice: follow protocol and prioritize the safety of the crew or risk their lives to rescue Kong Ryong. The tension is palpable as Eve Kim, Park Dong-ah, and Kang Tae-hee engage in a heated debate across the atmosphere, each driven by their own principles and instincts.
A Clash of Principles and Emotions
The released stills from Episode 8 showcase the intense confrontation between the veteran astronauts. Eve Kim, known for her strong moral compass and determination, insists that Kong Ryong cannot be abandoned, even as the clock ticks down. On the other hand, Kang Tae-hee, the by-the-book chief, emphasizes the importance of following the manual to ensure the safety of the crew. Meanwhile, Park Dong-ah advocates for a more flexible approach, adding another layer of complexity to the debate.
The emotional weight of the situation is further amplified by glimpses of Kong Ryong struggling to survive in the freezing, deteriorating space station. His desperate efforts to stay alive as the temperature drops and the debris closes in add a sense of urgency and anxiety to the unfolding drama.

Will the Rescue Succeed?
As the astronauts grapple with their decision, viewers are left wondering whether they can devise a plan to save Kong Ryong within the limited time frame. The episode raises questions about the value of human life, the limits of protocol, and the sacrifices required in the face of danger. Will Eve Kim’s determination prevail? Can Kang Tae-hee’s adherence to the manual be reconciled with the need for compassion? And will Park Dong-ah’s flexibility provide the key to a successful rescue?
The fate of Kong Ryong hangs in the balance, and the outcome of this high-stakes mission will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the crew and viewers alike.

Don’t Miss Episode 8
Ask the Stars continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of science fiction, human drama, and breathtaking visuals. Episode 8 promises to be a turning point in the series, as the characters are forced to confront their deepest fears and make impossible choices.
Tune in to tvN on January 26th at 9:20 PM to witness the gripping rescue mission and the emotional fallout that follows. With stellar performances from Gong Hyo-jin, Kim Joo-hun, Lee El, and Lee Min-ho, this episode is sure to be a standout moment in the series.