Veteran makeup artist Kim Sun Jin, known as the wife of the late actor Jo Min Ki, has made an emotional return to television after several years away from the spotlight.

As reported by Allkpop, Kim made a guest appearance on "Coupang Play's" massive beauty survival show Just Makeup, competing as "37 years as Genie."

She faced off against some of Korea's top makeup artists, showing confidence and vulnerability as she returned to the spotlight.

I may be old school, but I've worked with so many stars—Shim Eun Ha, Park Joong Hoon, the late Choi Jin Sil, Shim Hye Jin... I still have that special touch as someone from the first generation," she claimed. "It felt like it was time to jump back in and really play again."

The show, presented by Lee Hyori and judged by Jung Saem Mool and Lee Jin Soo, included Kim's daring attempt at redefining the "strong unni" image.

Kim was moved to tears, though, when beauty creator Risabae, who had worked at Kim's salon years before, went to comfort her during her critique.

As reported by Xportsnews, Risabae gently held Kim's hand and said, "Don't cry, director. I'll cover you," shielding her from view.

The reunion touched both the judges and the audience, revealing the profound respect that exists between the two artists.

In an interview backstage, Risabae stated, "Should I call her Genie-nim? It still feels strange to say that. She was my boss when I first joined the salon. Standing here facing each other again brought back so many emotions."

Kim, still crying, added, "I think we both remembered the old days. It's not just the past—it's the present and future too. These tears come from the memories we share."

While Kim was eventually cut from the round, she made a lasting impression on viewers as well as contestants. "Since I've mostly been running the salon instead of doing hands-on makeup, I lost a bit of confidence," she said. "But what you've learned with your body never leaves you—it just comes back naturally."

Kim Sun Jin, who is one of Korea's first makeup artists, wed Jo Min Ki in 1992. They had two children and once made a joint appearance on MBN variety show "Graduation from Marriage". Jo died in 2018, leaving behind a six-page letter amidst sexual assault charges.