STUDIO X+U’s upcoming mystery thriller drama “Friendly Rivalry” (literal title) has revealed its premiere date along with photos from its first script reading!
Based on a popular webtoon, “Friendly Rivalry” is a mystery thriller drama centered around Seul Gi, a transfer student at Chaehwa Girls’ High School, an elite institution for the top one percent in South Korea, where cutthroat academic competition takes place. The story unravels as her classmates reveal their desires, and Seul Gi becomes entangled in the mysterious death of her father, a former college entrance exam question setter. The series promises to realistically portray everything from the friendships of high school girls to their raw ambitions.
On January 7, STUDIO X+U released behind-the-scenes photos from the script reading, marking the energetic start of “Friendly Rivalry.” Present at the script reading were director Kim Tae Hee and writer Min Ye Ji as well as the and the main cast members including Hyeri, Jung Soo Bin, Kang Hye Won, Oh Woo Ri, Kim Tae Hoon, and GOT7’s Youngjae.
Hyeri takes on the role of Yoo Jae Yi, a genius high school student who belongs to the top 0.1 percent and holds significant influence at Chaehwa Girls’ High School. With her commanding charisma, every line Hyeri delivered captivated the room, leaving everyone in silence.
Jung Soo Bin plays Woo Seul Gi, who catches Yoo Jae Yi’s attention. She added depth to the story by delicately portraying the emotional turbulence Seul Gi experiences after transferring to Chaehwa Girls’ High School. Jung Soo Bin skillfully highlighted the contrast between Seul Gi, a transfer student from an orphanage, and Jae Yi, a privileged “silver spoon” and respected figure at the school.
Next, Kang Hye Won takes on the role of Joo Ye Ri, the queen of gossip at Chaehwa Girls’ High School who is obsessed with looks and luxury brands. Kang Hye Won brings her character to life by portraying the calculating and shrewd side of Joo Ye Ri with depth.
Oh Woo Ri portrays Choi Kyung, the perpetual No. 2 student who struggles to gain recognition despite her efforts. As a typical student who works hard in everything but cannot surpass the naturally gifted Jae Yi, Oh Woo Ri powerfully expressed Choi Kyung’s inferiority complex, leaving a strong impression.
Veteran actor Kim Tae Hoon, known for his standout performances, plays Jae Yi’s father Yoo Tae Joon, the director of J Medical Center.
Lastly, GOT7’s Youngjae makes his return to the small screen for the first time in three years with a captivating character who stirs suspense amidst the predominantly female cast.
“Friendly Rivalry” is set to premiere in February. Stay tuned for more updates!
Until then, watch Hyeri in her latest film “Victory”:
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And check out Kang Hye Won in “Seasons of Blossom”:
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Also watch Youngjae in “Love & Wish”:
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