Episode 6 of "Aema" kicks off with Hee-ran seeking Reporter Yang's assistance in unmasking Jung-ho, amidst the thrilling revelation that she has been nominated for the Supporting Actress Award and must attend the prestigious ceremony. To everyone's astonishment, Kwon arranges a meeting with her despite his initial disdain for "Aema" – a testament to Hee-ran's undeniable brilliance that earns him profound respect. He agrees to collaborate on "Predation Night," yet sheredirectshim towards a different request for aid.
Meanwhile, Jung-ho devises schemes to thwart Hee-ran's endeavors. Elsewhere, Ju-ae's family's incessant demands for more money escalate tensions. Jung-ho warns Choi to keep a close eye on Hee-ran, suspecting her motives, but Hee-ran's astuteness foils his tactics. Additionally, Jung-ho instructs Jae-geon, a Daejon reporter, to ensure Hee-ran does not triumph at the awards. As a sweetener, he orchestrates an encounter between Jae-geon and Ju-ae.
In another intense confrontation, Gi and Geun-ha clash over their differing values. Gi insists on his integrity, denying any wrongdoing, while Geun-ha scorns his hypocrisy, lambasting him for condoning industry excesses. Ultimately, he terminates her employment. The arranged meeting transpires at Ju-ae's former nightclub, where, fed up with Jae-geon's advances, she taunts him as impotent. His attempt to strike her backfires as she retaliates with a punch and storms out.
Elsewhere, Paul, the designer, avoids Hee-ran, revealing his allegiance has shifted to Ju-ae despite Hee-ran's unwavering loyalty. undeterred, Hee-ran emotionally manipulates Paul into dressing her one final time, determined to make a grand exit.
Jung-ho's fury intensifies when Jae-geon slanders Ju-ae, branding her a prostitute. However, what truly wounds Ju-ae is Jung-ho's disbelief in her innocence. The damage is irreparable; despite her sensual debut, fans cherished her portrayal as a modest individual with traditional values.
Distraught, Geun-ha attempts to burn newspapers spreading defamatory rumors about Ju-ae. Unable to cope with the industry's demands, she decides to vacate her current residence, seeking solace elsewhere.
On the eve of the prestigious awards ceremony, the atmosphere is electric. Hee-ran, resplendent in the gown meticulously crafted by Paul for Ju-ae, stands poised and radiant. Ju-ae arrives in dramatic fashion, astride a steed, clad in a unique rendition of her dance club attire, which earns Hee-ran a proud smile. As the evening unfolds, Ju-ae steals the show's opening moments alongside her fellow nominees, effortlessly capturing the audience's attention.
Despite Jae-geon's meddling, Ju-ae fails to clinch the award, but her spirits remain unbroken. She stays on to witness Hee-ran's category, only to be met with disappointment when Hee-ran's name is not announced. The night takes a turn when Kwon is honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award. He graciously brings Hee-ran onto the stage beside him, but Jung-ho's unease grows evident. Suddenly, Choi commands his men to apprehend Hee-ran.
In a bold move, just before the livestream is terminated, Hee-ran seizes the moment to expose Jung-ho's despicable deeds – pimping out actresses to government officials for gain and favors. Simultaneously, Yang and his comrades distribute pamphlets outside, echoing Hee-ran's accusations. Chaos ensues as Jung-ho and his governmental cronies scramble to capture Hee-ran. Kwon, Paul, Yeong-bae, and Reporter Yang spring into action, orchestrating her escape amidst the turmoil. Just when Hee-ran is on the brink of capture, Ju-ae arrives on her steed, sweeping her away to safety.
They converge at Hee-ran's warehouse, but their triumph is tinged with sorrow as Yang and Yeong-bae are apprehended. The scene shifts to their harrowing interrogation, where government officials extract information through torture. Jung-ho's fate is equally grim; Choi detains him, viewing him as a potential liability. Choi brutalizes him and pronounces him expendable.
However, the saga continues as Hee-ran confronts the Minister of Culture with a torn ledger page bearing his name. She presents him with an ultimatum: spare her allies and fellow actors from harm, or face exposure. Should he attempt to eliminate her, he too will face dire consequences. The night ends on a cliffhanger, with Hee-ran's bravery setting the stage for an uncertain future.
The repercussions of Hee-ran's cunning maneuvers unfold with startling consequences. Her daring gamble bears fruit as the nation is gripped with concern for her welfare. The public clamors for answers and fervently wishes for her wellbeing. In a twist of fate, Choi finds himself betrayed and apprehended by his own comrades, set up to take the blame. As Hee-ran prepares to depart, she imparts a poignant message to Ju-ae, urging her to exact retribution on the industry if she chooses to remain within its confines. Ju-ae, with tears streaming down her face, bids an emotional farewell to Geun-ha, vowing to remain resilient amidst the adversity.
Yang and Yeong-bae are finally freed from their confines. Kwak, as he watches the untouched version of "Aema," weeps inconsolably, realizing that the film's re-release is impossible due to the studio's shutdown. The year shifts to 1983, where Ju-ae makes her debut in Japan, capitalizing on her sex symbol persona. During an interview, she confides that the journey is arduous, but they are all in the same tumultuous boat, compelled to navigate through unpalatable necessities.
Hee-ran returns home, her face breaking into a smile as she watches Ju-ae's interview on television. In her possession, she holds a copy of Kwon's script, hinting at future plans. By the closing credits of Aema Episode 6, Yeong-bae has assumed the role of Ju-ae's manager. Ju-ae is inundated with offers, albeit all of the erotic variety. Donning her sunglasses and sipping wine, she channels Hee-ran's spirit, determined to carve her own path with unwavering resolve.
