In episodes 9 and 10 of tvN’s Saturday-Sunday drama “Love Next Door” (directed by Yoo Je-won, written by Shin Ha-eun, produced by Studio Dragon and The Modori), which aired on Sep 14th and 15th, it was revealed that Bae Seok-ryu (played by Jung So-min) underwent surgery for stomach cancer while in the U.S. three years ago. This secret was discovered by her family and friends, and it was also revealed that she had been suffering from depression because of it.
In episode 9, Seok-ryu was shown trying to call her mother Na Mi-sook (played by Park Ji-young) to confess her cancer diagnosis. However, she ended up comforting herself by saying “I’ll tell her when I’m completely better” and was unable to share the news.
The scene where Seok-ryu rejected Seung-hyo’s (played by Jung Hae-in) feelings was particularly heart-wrenching. Sitting atop a jungle gym, sharing ice cream with Seung-hyo, Seok-ryu calmly confessed that she had been proposed to by her ex-fiancé Song Hyeon-jun (played by Han Joon-woo). She then drew a firm line, saying that in her eyes, Seung-hyo was still just her mom’s friend’s son. She went on to say “You don’t actually like me; it’s just something imprinted on you“, firmly rejecting Seung-hyo’s feelings, leaving viewers with a bitter feeling.
Toward the end of the episode, Seok-ryu made it seem like she had accepted Song Hyeon-jun’s proposal when speaking to Seung-hyo. However, it was later revealed that she had actually declined. This leaves viewers curious about how the relationship between Seok-ryu, who is pushing Seung-hyo away, and Seung-hyo, who is determined to pursue her, will develop. Jung So-min’s nuanced performance is expected to add depth to the unfolding story.
In episode 10, Seok-ryu’s past surgery for stomach cancer was discovered by her family and friends, bringing tears to viewers. The next day, after learning the truth, Seok-ryu and her family became more cautious around each other, creating tension. How they will resolve their now awkward relationships piqued viewers’ curiosity.
Seok-ryu also clashed with Seung-hyo, who asked why she couldn’t give him the same chance to support her when she had extended a hand to him during his tough times. In response, Seok-ryu said, “What difference does it make if I lean on you? Everything will collapse like dominoes.” This scene revealed Seok-ryu’s deep concern for her family and those around her.
At the end of the episode, Seok-ryu, who suddenly disappeared, was found by Seung-hyo at the beach. After telling him not to worry, she received her biopsy results and was relieved to find out it was just a simple inflammation. Later, Seok-ryu joyfully participated in a belated welcome party, prepared by her family and friends at Seung-hyo’s suggestion, finally feeling happiness about returning to Korea. Meanwhile, Seok-ryu said a final farewell to Song Hyeon-jun, who left for the U.S. with Seung-hyo’s help, leaving viewers eager to see how her relationship with Seung-hyo will develop in future episodes.
Jung So-min elevated the drama’s immersion level with her intense portrayal of her character’s emotional and psychological changes, along with her tearful performance.
tvN’s Saturday-Sunday drama “Love Next Door”, starring Jung So-min, airs every Saturday and Sunday at 9:20 PM.
Source: Naver