Mixed Reactions to BLACKPINK's Jisoo in Netflix's 'Monthly Boyfriend': A Global Perspective

<<Yoo Ye-ji's Insight>>
Yoo Ye-ji from TenAsia delves into the future of the entertainment industry and its impact.

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BLACKPINK's Jisoo's appearance in Netflix's 'Monthly Boyfriend' has sparked mixed reactions domestically and internationally. While domestic audiences criticize her awkward expressions and unclear pronunciation, international fans offer more positive feedback.

Domestic viewers have been relatively critical. Following her performances in JTBC's 'Snowdrop', Coupang Play's 'Newtopia', and the film 'Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint', Jisoo's vocal delivery and diction have once again come under scrutiny. Korean audiences, who directly understand the language, seem to be more sensitive to her pronunciation and delivery.

Compared to the period drama 'Snowdrop' and the zombie-themed 'Newtopia', her acting has improved. The character in 'Monthly Boyfriend' closely resembles Jisoo's real-life persona, allowing for a more natural performance in this romantic comedy. However, many feel she has yet to meet the acting standards expected of idol-turned-actors.

In contrast, international audiences have been more favorable. As they primarily consume the content with subtitles, issues with Jisoo's pronunciation and diction are less noticeable. Instead, they focus on the character's charm and the overall visual appeal.

Notably, the American weekly magazine 'Time' praised Jisoo's casting, stating, "This is the role that suits Jisoo best among her previous characters. She effectively showcased the allure of the romance genre." Other international review sites also highlighted Jisoo's charm and her chemistry with co-star Seo In-guk as strengths of the production.

With such mixed reviews, there is potential for Jisoo's acting skills to grow. However, as she enters her sixth year as an actress, it is time for her to demonstrate stability in delivering lines and expressing a range of emotions. Domestic audiences, in particular, expect natural expressions, vocal delivery, and nuanced emotional portrayal from actors. Amidst these varied evaluations, there is keen interest in how Jisoo will evolve and challenge herself in future projects.

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