Unexpected Twists in 'Annoying Love': Ratings Decline as Characters Discover New Sides

In the latest episode of tvN's Monday-Tuesday drama 'Annoying Love', aired on the 10th, viewers witnessed unexpected developments between the characters Im Hyun-jun (played by Lee Jung-jae) and Wi Jung-shin (played by Lim Ji-yeon). Both characters found themselves hospitalized, leading to surprising revelations about each other. Im Hyun-jun's selflessness and Wi Jung-shin's journalistic integrity came to light, sparking curiosity about the future of their relationship. Despite these intriguing plot twists, the show's ratings have seen a decline, with the third episode recording an average nationwide rating of 4.2%, down from 5.5% for the first episode and 4.8% for the second.

The episode also featured Im Hyun-jun visiting Wi Jung-shin at Sports Eunseong, where he unexpectedly apologized for his past behavior. However, his ulterior motive of presenting a settlement agreement led to a heated confrontation. Meanwhile, Im Hyun-jun, struggling to break free from his typecast image as a detective actor, was excited to find a new script, only to be disappointed upon learning that Kwon Se-na (played by Oh Yeon-seo) had already been cast as the lead. Determined to turn this setback into an opportunity, he resolved to pursue international opportunities.

The episode further complicated Im Hyun-jun's life as his mother's complaints led to a sleepless night and a hospital visit due to a sleeping pill mishap. Coincidentally, Wi Jung-shin was also admitted to the same hospital for appendicitis. She seized the opportunity to investigate rumors about Im Hyun-jun, hoping to secure a transfer to the main office with ten exclusive stories.

Wi Jung-shin's investigation led her to Im Hyun-jun's hospital room, where she was caught off guard by unexpected visitors. In an awkward encounter, she proposed an interview to diffuse the situation, which Im Hyun-jun reluctantly agreed to. Later, as Wi Jung-shin reflected on Kwon Se-na's presence in Im Hyun-jun's room, she found herself on the hospital's rooftop garden. There, Im Hyun-jun overheard her singing a song filled with memories of Kwon Se-na. Their usual banter was interrupted when Wi Jung-shin collapsed from pain, prompting Im Hyun-jun to heroically assist her, despite injuring himself in the process. This act of bravery quickly went viral online, significantly altering public perception of Im Hyun-jun.

Despite his grumbling, Im Hyun-jun was secretly grateful for Wi Jung-shin's article about him, while she appreciated his help. As they began to see new sides of each other, an unfamiliar tension developed between them. The episode concluded with another chance encounter, as they unknowingly attended a blind date arranged by their siblings. The scene ended with Wi Jung-shin's bright smile contrasting with Im Hyun-jun's surprised expression, leaving viewers eager to see how their relationship will evolve.

Additionally, the episode revealed the past relationship between Sports Eunseong's CEO Lee Jae-hyung (played by Kim Ji-hoon) and entertainment department head Yoon Hwa-young (played by Seo Ji-hye). Once close, their current animosity hints at a deeper story, capturing the audience's attention.

Reported by Tae Yuna, TenAsia youyou@tenasia.co.kr