Actress So Yi-hyun has redefined the concept of a 'villainess.' Traditionally portrayed as cold, ruthless, and ultimately punished, So Yi-hyun's character in KBS's 'Prescribing Love' is one that audiences find hard to completely despise. She brings to life a character that is both annoying yet relatable.
So Yi-hyun steps away from the typical villainess mold. Playing the role of a wealthy doctor's second wife, she is calculating and opportunistic, yet she never crosses the line completely.
Though she didn't give birth to them, she prioritizes the well-being of her husband's children, aiming to marry them off into advantageous situations. She manipulates situations to her benefit, pretending to be pricked by a pin or secretly spreading videos.
Her character is undeniably selfish, yet not entirely detestable. Her comical scheming with her husband adds a layer of realism and relatability. Her calculating glances and smirks build a multi-dimensional character.
Contrastingly, she shows genuine dedication and sincerity towards her husband's family, to whom she is not biologically related. She embraces a daughter who opposes her with affection and sincerely supports her son's marriage.
This role marks a significant point in So Yi-hyun's filmography. Known for her deep emotional performances, she shifts to a lighter character, showcasing a different, more playful side, distinct from her usual serious image.
Rather than portraying a complete villainess, she embodies a character that could exist in reality, making her both more annoying and relatable. Through 'Prescribing Love,' So Yi-hyun has rewritten the definition of a villainess, creating a new face of a character that audiences find themselves understanding despite initial dislike.
Ryu Ye-ji, TenAsia Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr