Jung So-min Discusses Close Bond with Jung Hae-in Amid Dating Rumors: “Seok-ryu is a Cherished Character” (Love Next Door)

On October 5th and 6th, the concluding episodes of tvN’s Saturday-Sunday series “Love Next Door” were broadcast. These final installments depicted Bae Seok-ryu, portrayed by Jung So-min, gaining approval from both her and Choi Seung-hyo’s (played by Jung Hae-in) families to proceed with their romantic relationship.

In the 15th episode, the budding romance between Seok-ryu and Seung-hyo comes to light, much to the dismay of their parents. Despite initial opposition, Seok-ryu manages to pull Seung-hyo inside her room after he attempts to sneak in through the window. When Seung-hyo proposes to her, her whimsical reply—”If I turn down a proposal like this, what kind of person would I be? A doll perhaps?” —evokes a wave of romantic emotions from the audience.

Seok-ryu also resonates with viewers as she shows compassion toward her father, Bae Geun-sik (played by Jo Han-chul), who had to shutter the snack bar he maintained for years. She reassures him, saying, “If you ever feel uneasy or cold, please tell me,” illustrating her role as the responsible eldest daughter.

Moreover, Seok-ryu passionately expresses her ambition to become a chef, declaring, “I can’t wait for people to savor my dishes. I want to stir up happiness in a pot for them.” Her unwavering resolve to chase after her culinary dreams, coupled with Jung So-min’s vibrant energy, highlights the character’s motivational force, satisfying the audience.

Later in the episode, Seok-ryu takes Seung-hyo to a playground where she delights him with her homemade pan-fried skewers and promises an endless supply of these labor-intensive delicacies, creating a delightful and heartfelt proposal moment.

In the final 16th episode, Seok-ryu feels immensely grateful upon receiving positive responses to her cooking vlog. She discovers a comment from someone seeking healthy recipes due to health issues. Filled with joy, Seok-ryu announces her intention to open her own restaurant, a dream she is proud to be realizing.

Additionally, Seok-ryu informs Seung-hyo that she wishes to postpone their wedding for a year and instead proposes a vow renewal ceremony for his parents. As they witness the vow renewal alongside their families, Seok-ryu and Seung-hyo experience a moment of joy that brings smiles to the viewers’ faces.

As the episode concludes, the couple shares a lighthearted quarrel before they visit a potential new home together, wrapping up the story on a cheerful note. Jung So-min’s authentic portrayal of her character’s romance with a childhood friend captured the audience, as she adeptly illustrated Seok-ryu’s emotional arc through challenges, family strife, and love, displaying nuanced expressions and strong acting.

After the series finale on October 6th, Jung So-min reflected, “I can still feel the energy of the filming set; it’s hard to accept that the show has ended. Seok-ryu is a character very close to my heart, and I feel blessed to have portrayed her. I hope viewers found empathy and comfort through the series and the character of Seok-ryu. I deeply appreciate all the fans who supported ‘Love Next Door.’”

Source: Nate

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