Hyeri Talks About Her Character In “Friendly Rivalry,” How She Prepared For The Role, And More

Hyeri has shared her thoughts on her upcoming drama “Friendly Rivalry”!

Based on a popular webtoon, “Friendly Rivalry” is a mystery thriller set at Chaehwa Girls’ High School, an elite institution for the top 1 percent in South Korea, where cutthroat academic competition takes place between the students. Jung Soo Bin stars as Woo Seul Gi, a transfer student who becomes entangled in her classmates’ hidden ambitions.

On February 3, the production team released an interview with Hyeri, where she discussed her character, Yoo Jae Yi, and the effort she put into bringing the role to life.

Hyeri explained why she decided to take on the project, saying, “While reading the script, I felt a sense of freedom from breaking taboos. I knew I wouldn’t get many chances to act in a story like this, and I was drawn to its unique atmosphere, which I hadn’t experienced in other projects.”

She added, “The intense psychological tension between the characters caught my attention. Also, Jae Yi is completely different from any role I’ve played before, so I was excited to show a new side of myself.”

Hyeri described her character, saying, “Jae Yi seems like the perfect friend. She comes from a good family, excels in her studies, and is beautiful—she’s the star and a role model at Chaehwa High School.”

However, Hyeri also pointed out, “Behind her perfect appearance, Yoo Jae Yi hides a sense of emptiness, and her seemingly good intentions may have other motives. It would be more interesting if viewers try to uncover the hidden meanings behind what’s shown on the surface.”

When asked about her preparation for the role, Hyeri said, “I focused on showing a sharp gaze and an unreadable expression, which contrasts with Jae Yi’s friendly and kind appearance. To play her, I had to understand her mindset, so I constantly imagined the choices she would make and searched for the answers.” She added, “To make Jae Yi mysterious and compelling, I think I completed the role without feeling the need to justify her actions.”

Hyeri also mentioned, “Since Jae Yi is the role model at Chaehwa High School, I made special effort to look even more beautiful than usual. Whether in casual clothes or the school uniform scenes, I paid close attention to details like accessories and bags.”

When asked what the project would mean for her career, Hyeri said, “I think viewers will see a side of me they haven’t seen before. In the past, I often played bright, lively, and positive characters, but Jae Yi has a darker side and is ruthless. She’s a character where coldness stands out more than warmth, so I think viewers will watch and think, ‘Did Hyeri really have this side?’”

“Friendly Rivalry” is set to premiere on February 10. Stay tuned!

Until then, watch Hyeri in her latest film “Victory”:

Watch Now

Source (1)