K-Drama 'Annoying Love' Sees Ratings Fluctuate as Plot Thickens

The TV drama 'Annoying Love,' starring Lee Jung-jae and Lim Ji-yeon, recorded a viewership rating of 4.4%. The series, which premiered with a 5.5% rating, saw a decline to 3.1% by its sixth episode.

In the seventh episode of 'Annoying Love,' which aired on the 24th on tvN, viewers saw the character Wi Jung-shin, played by Lim Ji-yeon, uncover the dark secrets of Yoon Jung-ho, portrayed by Jang Gwang. Meanwhile, Lee Jung-jae's character, Im Hyun-joon, begins a quest for revenge on behalf of Wi Jung-shin. The episode also teased the complex relationship between Im Hyun-joon and Wi Jung-shin, as Im Hyun-joon seeks solace in a secret friend known as 'Soulful.'

The episode achieved a 4.4% average rating in the Seoul metropolitan area, peaking at 5.7%, and a 4.2% average nationwide, peaking at 5.3%, securing the top spot in its time slot across cable and general programming channels, according to Nielsen Korea.

The entertainment department of Sports Eunseong was thrown into chaos when Yoon Jung-ho announced his intention to sue Wi Jung-shin. Upon returning to the office, Wi Jung-shin was confronted with a lawsuit. Despite being urged by Yoon Hwa-young, played by Seo Ji-hye, to resolve the issue, Wi Jung-shin confronted Yoon Jung-ho, warning him of the consequences if he did not withdraw the lawsuit.

Following a confusing phone call between Im Hyun-joon and 'Soulful,' the two characters are set to clarify their misunderstandings. Wi Jung-shin, unaware that the voice on the other end belongs to Im Hyun-joon, is intrigued by the similarity in their voices. Despite the tension in their real-life relationship, their phone conversations are filled with a pleasant excitement.

Im Hyun-joon, concerned about Wi Jung-shin's legal troubles, advises her to apologize. However, Wi Jung-shin remains firm, stating, "I can't apologize. I corrected the mistake with a revised article." Her determination stems from additional information provided by Kwon Se-na, played by Oh Yeon-seo, about Yoon Jung-ho's abusive behavior. Im Hyun-joon is impressed by Wi Jung-shin's journalistic integrity and her willingness to expose corruption.

Struggling with his feelings for Wi Jung-shin, Im Hyun-joon turns to AI for advice and is reminded of 'Soulful,' who provides him with comfort through anonymous conversations. Unbeknownst to them, their secret friendship grows as they share daily life and support each other.

In a surprising turn of events, Wi Jung-shin learns that Yoon Jung-ho has dropped the lawsuit. She discovers that Im Hyun-joon's agency has signed a contract with Yoon Jung-ho, a strategic move by Im Hyun-joon to exact revenge on her behalf.

Im Hyun-joon instructs his manager, Hwang, played by Choi Gwi-hwa, to reject all scripts for Yoon Jung-ho, effectively tying his hands. Meanwhile, Im Hyun-joon heads to a fishing spot where brothers Lee Jae-hyung, played by Kim Ji-hoon, and Lee Dae-ho, played by Kim Jae-chul, await.

The episode also explores the complicated dynamics between Wi Jung-shin, Lee Jae-hyung, who shows interest in her, and Yoon Hwa-young, who still harbors feelings for him. Yoon Hwa-young's unexpected kiss with Lee Jae-hyung and the revelation that she has a son add further intrigue.

The eighth episode of 'Annoying Love' will air tonight at 8:50 PM on tvN.

Reported by Kim Se-ah, TenAsia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr