Even before its official release, the live-action adaptation of Romance 101 has already been embroiled in a wave of controversy, with the casting choices sparking heated debate in online communities. What initially seemed like a safe couple – Hwang In-yeop and Cho Yi-hyun – has instead become the focus of criticism, as many viewers argue that neither actor fits their respective roles.
The strongest reaction was directed at Hwang In-yeop, who takes on the role of Yoo Yeon, a near-perfect character “campus crush” appears in the original webtoon. Known for his flawless artwork, cool demeanor, and quiet charisma, the character is considered an idealized male protagonist among fans. As a result, the casting announcement left many disappointed, with some bluntly stating that Hwang In-yeop “does not correspond to the visual standard” expected for the role.
Reactions on Korean social media were particularly harsh, with some netizens even questioning whether the actor should have turned down the role altogether. The controversy has also reignited broader skepticism about the current wave of webtoon adaptations, as audiences increasingly believe that many projects fail to capture the original tone and essence of the source material.
Even Cho Yi-hyun, chosen for the role of the female protagonist Jung Ba-reum, did not escape criticism. Her character is portrayed as a bookish, rule-abiding girl who struggles with romance. Although he had previously gained recognition for his strong and charismatic performance in the We are all deadthis time viewers argue that she lacks the natural charm and emotional depth required for a central romantic role. Some comments even describe her as stiff, saying she has yet to deliver the message “main character vibe” expected from Ba-reum.
Reactions online range from disappointment to outright frustration, with some viewers calling for fewer live-action adaptations. Comments like “Here’s why webtoons shouldn’t be adapted” AND “The casting has already ruined it” highlight the growing gap between fan expectations and production decisions.
Despite the negative reaction, Romance 101 follows a familiar yet compelling plot centered on Ba-reum’s journey through love. As someone who lives by strict rules but has no experience in dating, she enters a confusing emotional world when she decides to pursue a relationship, especially with seemingly cold but kind-hearted senior Yoo Yeon.
Given the immense popularity of the original webtoon and the idealized portrayal of its characters, the adaptation inevitably faces scrutiny. Every detail, from the visuals to the acting, was put under the microscope, amplifying the negative reactions even before the first episode aired.
However, since the drama has yet to premiere, public opinion could still change. With a genre that relies heavily on emotional storytelling, Romance 101 could still win over audiences if the narrative execution and performances manage to resonate beyond initial expectations.
Sources: kenh14
