Can Jisoo Overcome Acting Criticism and Become a 'Rom-Com Goddess'?

Jisoo aims to turn a new leaf in her acting career, aspiring to become a 'rom-com goddess' with a character that resonates with her own personality.

On the 26th, a press conference for the Netflix drama 'Monthly Boyfriend' was held at the JW Marriott Hotel in Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul. The event was attended by actors Seo In-guk, Jisoo, and director Kim Jung-sik.

'Monthly Boyfriend' tells the story of Mi-rae (played by Jisoo), a webtoon PD exhausted by real life, who experiences dating by 'subscribing' to a virtual boyfriend through a simulation.

Director Kim introduced the series, saying, "It started with the idea of 'what if you could subscribe to dating?' The protagonist, hurt by reality, finds healing through 'Monthly Boyfriend' as she experiences dating. Unlike typical dramas where an actor plays one character, here, an actor plays multiple characters through a dating subscription service. It feels like a device being developed somewhere, and I think viewers will find it fun to experience it in advance. We've packed in everything you love."

Jisoo expressed her excitement about her first romantic comedy and modern drama. She said, "Being the same age as Mi-rae, I found many relatable and fun aspects. It was enjoyable to create the character while empathizing with her. Since (Seo) In-guk oppa has done a lot of romance, I followed his lead and worked hard," expressing her desire to be known as a 'rom-com goddess.'

Regarding the long-standing criticism of her acting, Jisoo said, "Since I'm playing various roles, I talked a lot with the director to show a better side this time." She added, "I wondered if there was a way to fit into a character of my age like a perfect outfit. I hope people say the character suits me well."

Previously, Jisoo faced criticism for her acting in JTBC's 'Snowdrop' and Coupang Play's 'Newtopia' due to unclear pronunciation and awkward expressions.

Director Kim emphasized, "Jisoo really put in a lot of effort. She handled various settings and characters well. The character's growth in the drama will showcase Jisoo's growth as an actress. Her effort has surpassed talent."

Seo In-guk plays Park Kyung-nam, Mi-rae's workplace rival who always comes in first. He said, "The concept of entering a virtual reality world was intriguing, and the story that connects with characters matching the virtual reality themes and backgrounds was captivating. The emotional shifts of the character Mi-rae, who moves between virtual and real worlds, and the story that unfolds as a result, were appealing."

Seo In-guk added, "I have a new dream. I want to experience dates with various themes. I want to go on dates in places I can no longer return to, like a campus or a grand palace." When MC Park Kyung-lim commented, "It's not too late for a campus date," Seo In-guk humorously replied, "I think it's time to put down the school uniform."

Seo In-guk also praised Jisoo, saying, "It was our first time working together, and I found her to be much more fun and humorous than I expected. Thanks to her, the set was filled with laughter from start to finish. There was no one raising their voice, and we were able to wrap up filming happily. I think the character Mi-rae, with her lovable charm, became even more endearing and huggable through Jisoo's portrayal."

'Monthly Boyfriend' will be available on Netflix starting March 6th.

Ryu Ye-ji, TenAsia Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr