On February 6, a press conference for the STUDIO X+U drama 'Friendly Rivalry' was held at CGV Yongsan in Seoul. Actress Hyeri addressed questions regarding her on-screen kiss with co-star Chung Soo Bin, stating, “I did not have significant concerns. When I read the script, the emotional flow was natural and entirely understandable.”

She further elaborated, “The scene effectively defines the characters of Seul Gi and Jae. As the story progresses, their relationship undergoes various phases—growing closer, drifting apart, and even developing into an intense fixation. I envisioned the scene as a beautifully captured moment between the two.”

'Friendly Rivalry' is a mystery thriller set in Chaehwa High School, an elite institution where only the top 1% of students compete fiercely for academic success. The story follows transfer student Woo Seul Gi (played by Chung Soo Bin) as she navigates a world of intense competition, revealing the hidden ambitions of her peers while unraveling the mystery surrounding her father’s suspicious death. True to its girls’ thriller genre, the drama delivers a fast-paced, intricate narrative that enhances viewer engagement. The kiss scene between Hyeri and Chung Soo Bin plays a pivotal role in the development of the storyline, further amplifying audience anticipation.

Director Kim Tae Hee provided insight into the creative direction of the series, stating, “From the outset, Friendly Rivalry was designed to authentically portray the emotions of teenagers, but it was not specifically targeted at a teenage audience. The script was developed with a mature viewership in mind, and we anticipated a restricted rating.” She continued, “While we conducted extensive research, including interviews with teenagers, our objective was to capture the emotional depth of the characters in a way that resonates with anyone who has experienced the pressures of academic competition.”

Regarding the intricate relationship between Yoo Jae (Hyeri) and Woo Seul Gi (Chung Soo Bin), Director Kim explained, “The two characters come from entirely different backgrounds. While people often form friendships based on similarities, true intrigue arises when someone possesses qualities we lack. This dynamic is central to their relationship.”

She concluded, “Everyone has a person from their adolescence who significantly influenced their personal growth. I believe Jae and Seul Gi fulfill that role for each other.”

'Friendly Rivalry' is set to premiere on February 10, exclusively on U+tv and U+Mobiletv.

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