The core of the episode lies in Joo-won’s final confrontation with his mother. In a bold act of independence, he informs her that while he lived the first 34 years of his life as her son, he will live the rest as Ra-im’s husband. This rejection of maternal authority is a critical turning point; he does not ask for permission but simply informs her of his decision to register their marriage.
The series ends with the couple walking through the snow toward their home, echoing the idea that time and love can turn even bad memories into happy ones. Reviewers from Dramabeans note that while the magical elements remained somewhat ambiguous, the emotional impact was undeniable. Secret Garden: Episode 20 (Final) - Dramabeans Secret GardenEps20
The episode’s final moments reinforce the theme of "destined love." A flashback reveals that a young Joo-won had actually comforted a mourning Ra-im after her father's funeral years before they ever officially met. This suggests that their connection was orchestrated long before the magical intervention of the "Secret Garden" and Ra-im’s father’s spirit. The core of the episode lies in Joo-won’s
: The couple thrives despite the lack of a full inheritance or maternal approval. The series ends with the couple walking through
: Ra-im advances to become the director of the action school, while Joo-won maintains his career and learns to be a devoted, if slightly competitive, father. Themes of Fate and Memory