Jo Yoon-seo played the role of Seol Jae-hee, the co-CEO of the AI matchmaking program 'It's You', and was a pivotal character driving the central conflict of the drama. Seol Jae-hee appears to be the closest friend and business partner of the protagonist Yoon Bi-ah (played by Yeonwoo), but she harbors revenge and obsession stemming from past wounds. Jo Yoon-seo masterfully depicted the chilling inner turmoil hidden behind her character's seemingly carefree demeanor, heightening the tension in each episode.
As the series progressed, the gradual revelation of Seol Jae-hee's twisted psyche became a key focal point. In the final episode, her storyline reached a dramatic climax, delivering a powerful shock to viewers. Ultimately, Jae-hee made an irreversible choice, crumbling in front of Bi-ah and turning herself in as a suspect in a hit-and-run case, leaving a bitter aftertaste. Jo Yoon-seo's intense emotional performance, particularly when she kneeled and pleaded in despair, was praised for perfectly completing the character's narrative arc.
Upon the series' conclusion, Jo Yoon-seo expressed through her agency, "Jae-hee was the character most afraid of love among all the characters. I always viewed Jae-hee's choices with a sense of pity while acting."
She highlighted the scene where she breaks down in front of Bi-ah as the most memorable. Jo Yoon-seo explained, "The scene where I kneel and plead, only to see my broken self, remains with me. It felt like those tears marked the beginning of truly facing herself and feeling regret." She added, "I hope Jae-hee is now ready to trust in love and people, and prepare for happiness," bidding a heartfelt farewell to her character.
Jo Yoon-seo also extended her gratitude to her colleagues and viewers. She said, "Thanks to the wonderful actors and staff, I was able to walk through Jae-hee's journey to the end. I sincerely thank the viewers who cherished 'Lovephobia' and immersed themselves in Jae-hee's story."
Ryu Ye-ji, Ten Asia Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr