Idol-Turned-Actress Teases Bold Same-gender Kiss in New Korean Drama: “For Mature Audiences”

The highly anticipated STUDIO X+U drama 'Friendly Rivalry' is making waves ahead of its February 10 premiere with the announcement of a bold same-gender kiss scene.

Set against the backdrop of Chaehwa Girls’ High School, a prestigious institution for Korea’s elite 1%, the drama delves into intense rivalries, mysteries, and high-stakes drama. Combining the familiar school-life genre with thriller and mystery elements, it promises heightened tension and immersive storytelling.

Based on the popular 76-episode Naver webtoon of the same name, 'Friendly Rivalry' explores the twisted love and fierce rivalry between two seemingly opposite students: the perfect Jay and the innocent transfer student Seul-ki. Jay, who once helped Seul-ki when she was an outcast, becomes an indispensable part of her life. However, their close friendship spirals into an obsessive, blurred relationship where it’s hard to distinguish between love and rivalry.

The original webtoon captivated readers with its realistic depiction of Korea’s cutthroat academic competition and its exploration of twisted emotions and strained friendships among top students. Fans of the webtoon have been buzzing since the drama adaptation was announced, expressing excitement.

Fans are buzzing with excitement, calling the adaptation “insane” and celebrating the long-awaited transition of their favorite webtoon into a drama. Many praised the teaser as “crazy good” and expressed their eagerness, with some noting that they’ve “loved this webtoon for years” and are thrilled it’s finally happening. Anticipation for Hyeri’s role is equally high, with viewers describing it as “fresh yet familiar,” while others placed their faith in U+ productions, confident that they “never miss” and promising to tune in.

Hyeri stars as Yoo Jay, the brilliant student who ranks in the top 0.1% at Chaehwa Girls’ High School. With her flawless appearance, perfect grades, and wealthy background, she is untouchable and commands respect as the school’s queen.

Opposite her, Jung Soo-bin plays Woo Seul-ki, a naive girl from a rural orphanage who transfers to Chaehwa Girls’ High. Initially timid, Seul-ki gradually becomes obsessed with academic success to survive the school’s competitive environment. She views Jay, the only person who ever stood by her, as a precious friend, leading to personal growth and conflict.

The cast also includes Kang Hye-won, Oh Woo-ri, Kim Tae-hoon, Lee Won-jae, and Choi Young-jae. Directed by Kim Tae-hee, the drama’s upcoming same-gender bathtub kiss between Hyeri and Jung Soo-bin has already drawn widespread attention and intrigue.

During the press conference held on February 6 at CGV Yongsan in Seoul, Hyeri addressed the kiss scene, saying, “I wasn’t too worried. When I read the script, the emotional arc made perfect sense to me. The scene clearly defines the character and sets the tone for future episodes. I approached it as a beautiful moment that fits naturally within the story.”

Director Kim added, “From the start, we designed the series with a mature audience in mind. Although it captures the emotions of teenagers, this is not specifically a teen-targeted drama.”

'Friendly Rivalry' premieres on February 10 and will air every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday at midnight via U+tv and U+mobiletv.