The highly anticipated STUDIO X+U drama 'Friendly Rivalry' is set to premiere on February 10.
This mystery-thriller follows Seulgi, a transfer student who enters Chaehwa Girls’ High School, an elite institution for Korea’s top 1%, where ruthless academic competition unfolds. Seulgi’s arrival unravels the hidden desires of her classmates and the truth behind her father’s mysterious death—he used to be a member of the college entrance exam committee. The show stars Lee Hye Ri as Yoo Jae Yi, Jung Soo Bin as Woo Seulgi, Kang Hye Won as Joo Ye Ri, and Oh Woo Ri as Choi Kyung, depicting how the intense academic environment pushes these teens to the edge.
The teaser, released on January 12, opens with a mysterious figure sinking into the water before transitioning to Chaehwa Girls' High School, where Yoo Jae Yi stands confidently in front of the student body. In contrast, Woo Seulgi makes her entrance under wary glances from other students, including Joo Ye Ri and Choi Kyung. A voiceover asks, "When do you think competition really begins?"
The teaser further contrasts Yoo Jae Yi as the "undisputed top student" and Woo Seulgi as the "survivor-type top student trying to endure." The scene where Yoo Jae Yi approaches Seulgi and asks, "Are you aiming for Korea University too?" shows her curiosity toward Seulgi, highlighting the complex and subtle emotions between the two.
The caption "A delicate relationship" encapsulates the fragile balance between them.
Additional scenes reveal the individual personalities of the characters. Joo Ye Ri takes selfies in front of a mirror and Choi Kyung furiously throws papers off the rooftop. Choi Kyung’s line, "I’m against an unknown girl joining our group," hints at the tension sparked by Seulgi's arrival, foreshadowing conflict among the trio.
As the montage progresses, the dynamic between Yoo Jae Yi and Woo Seulgi deepens, accompanied by the ominous phrase "Is it sincerity or obsession?" When Seulgi says, "Honestly, I still can’t trust you," Yoo Jae Yi replies, "But wouldn’t it be better for you to trust me?" while extending her hand.
The mood shifts dramatically after they clasp hands. Tension-filled and provocative scenes unfold rapidly as the escalating reactions and intense expressions of the girls amplify the suspense. The teaser ends on a chilling note as Choi Kyung’s scream echoes, followed by Yoo Jae Yi’s unsettling laughter, leaving a lasting impression.
Lee Hye Ri takes on the role of Yoo Jae Yi, the top 0.1% of her elite school, maintaining her rank as the top student at Chaehwa Girls' High. As the daughter of Yoo Tae Joon (played by Kim Tae Hoon), the director of J Medical Center, she has it all—brains, wealth, and stunning looks.
Meanwhile, 'Friendly Rivalry' is set to premiere on February 10.
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