Episode 5 of Love Next Door aired on the night of August 31, featuring many moments of chemistry between Jung Hae In and Jung So Min. However, the show’s ratings were disappointing, with ratings dropping from 6.5% to 4.7% compared to the previous week.
Specifically, episode 5 continued the story of the two close friends who work together. After sharing their feelings and understanding each other better, Seung Ho and Seok Ryu returned to Seung Ho’s company to cook. Seok Ryu unexpectedly fell into his friend’s arms, delighting viewers with their genuine chemistry.
It is known that Son Ye Jin and Jung Hae In have collaborated previously Something in the rain. The pairing of Jung Hae In and Son Ye Jin had once created a sensation with their incredibly sweet and natural “chemistry” on screen. The age difference between the two characters not only prevented any awkwardness, but also added a special charm. Therefore, when this “ironic” reference to this special character emerged, it brought back memories of the craze that had left both Jung Hae In and viewers nostalgic.
Furthermore, Episode 5 of the series continued to show numerous interactions between Seung Ho and Seok Ryu. In this episode, Seung Ho realized that his inexplicable frustration towards his friend was actually jealousy and realized that he had developed a secret affection for Seok Ryu. Additionally, a new character, Seung Ho’s ex-girlfriend Tae Hui, was introduced, but she didn’t stand out much due to her somewhat “submissive” behavior towards the main couple’s love. Unlike the typical motif of other dramas, where the male lead’s ex is usually more intriguing and determined to win him back for the sake of drama, Tae Hui’s appearance in this episode was too gentle and didn’t pose a real threat to the main couple. On the contrary, she even emphasized Seung Ho’s affection for Seok Ryu and explained to him that his recent strange behavior was evidence of his jealousy and desire to be with the female lead.
However, despite all this, the show’s ratings have been disappointingly low. Perhaps the series has played it too safe, with no drama or climax to tease the next episode, causing viewers to lose interest. Chemistry is also very important; every part of a series needs to be well received, but if there is too much of it, with everything too happy, too peaceful and lacking in excitement, it may not be enough to help the series break through.
Love Next Door airs every Saturday and Sunday evening on tvN and Netflix.
Source: K14
