In the seventh installment of "Jeongnyeon: The Star is Born," the Maeran troupe's dynamics take center stage as they navigate the complexities of their upcoming performance. The episode begins with Jeongnyeon delivering an emotionally charged rendition of the "Lament of the Soldiers," which, while captivating the audience, deviates from the script and disrupts the play's intended flow. Kang So-bok, the troupe's leader, is torn between admiration for Jeongnyeon's talent and concern for the ensemble's harmony. Despite the applause, So-bok reprimands Jeongnyeon for her impulsive performance, emphasizing the importance of collective unity over individual ambition.
Following the performance, Jeongnyeon is expelled from the play, a decision that initially seems harsh but is later understood as a necessary lesson in the importance of teamwork. The fan's praise after the show makes Jeongnyeon realize the truth in So-bok's criticism; her performance, though impressive, had overshadowed the play's intended narrative. In a poignant moment, Yeong-seo's mother praises Jeongnyeon, offering her a rare sense of genuine appreciation. Jeongnyeon gracefully accepts her punishment and returns to her duties at the Maeran house.
Jooran's attempt to comfort Jeongnyeon reveals that Jeongnyeon has taken the setback as an opportunity to improve, practicing everyone's lines in preparation for future opportunities. Meanwhile, at Yeong-seo's home, tension mounts as her mother reveals Jeongnyeon's lineage to the famous pansori singer, Gong-seon, and urges Yeong-seo to surpass her. Jealousy drives Yeong-seo to damage an album featuring Jeongnyeon's mother, but when confronted, both realize they share the burden of living in their mothers' shadows, forging an unexpected bond.
Rehearsals continue with Jooran struggling to find the chemistry with Yeong-seo that she had with Jeongnyeon. A tragic accident during a rehearsal sees a light fixture fall, injuring Jooran as she saves Yeong-seo. In the hospital, Jooran insists that Jeongnyeon take her place as "Precious," and So-bok reluctantly agrees, warning Jeongnyeon that failure will mean expulsion from the troupe. Jeongnyeon rises to the occasion, delivering a poised and powerful performance that impresses So-bok and the audience. When Yeong-seo falters, Jeongnyeon improvises, allowing both to shine, and the play concludes with thunderous applause. So-bok publicly praises both actresses, declaring Jeongnyeon an official trainee, a moment met with cheers and renewed hope.
Back at the Maeran house, So-bok and Do-aeng discover the fallen lights were no accident, and the troupe's safe is missing. Hye-rang, who had brought the accountant into the fold, confronts him in secret, reclaiming a book from the safe and vowing to protect Ok-kyeong. At home, tensions between Ok-kyeong and Hye-rang escalate as Ok-kyeong expresses her desire to leave the troupe, feeling their performances have grown stale. Hye-rang, fixated on competition, views Jeongnyeon, Jooran, and Yeong-seo as threats. Frustrated, Ok-kyeong storms out for some air.
The episode concludes with a rejuvenating tour where the troupe members bond. Yeong-seo, remorseful, gifts Jeongnyeon an album of her mother's songs, rekindling their friendship. As the tour ends, So-bok announces upcoming auditions that will decide the future lead roles in the troupe. Jeongnyeon, Yeong-seo, and Jooran feel a surge of determination, ready to prove themselves worthy of leading the next chapter of their story. This episode of "Jeongnyeon: The Star is Born" is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of camaraderie, and the unyielding spirit of those who dare to pursue their dreams on the stage.