The romantic comedy-drama My Dearest Nemesis, featuring a talented cast including Moon Ga-young, Choi Hyun-wook, Im Se-mi, and Kwak Si-yang, recently concluded with its twelfth episode. The narrative centers on Baek Su-jeong, the diligent team leader of the planning department at Yongseong Department Store, known for her precise work ethic, outspoken nature, and exceptional performance.
In her youth, Baek Su-jeong underwent a painful ending with her first love, identified as Black Dragon, encountered through an online game. This troubled past left her with a strong desire never to see him again. The real identity of Black Dragon is Ban Ju-yeon, who experienced rejection from Su-jeong, now known as Strawberry, in a manner that left an indelible mark on his soul.
Ban Ju-yeon, now the director of Yongseong Department Store and a likely heir to the business empire, unexpectedly crosses paths with Baek Su-jeong after 16 years, serving as a pivotal twist in the drama. Adapted from the webtoon That Man Is Black Salt Dragon by Hye Jin-yang, My Dearest Nemesis begins with a captivating premise but gradually succumbs to predictability as the episodes unfold.
Review: My Dearest Nemesis – A Missed Opportunity in Romantic Chemistry
Moon Ga-young’s portrayal of Baek Su-jeong presents a fierce, determined character who stands up against workplace injustices. Her performance is commendable and showcases her range as an actress. Conversely, Choi Hyun-wook shines in his debut leading role as Ban Ju-yeon, providing an intriguing dynamic between the lead characters. However, audiences may initially question the casting choice before witnessing how their characters unfold.
The narrative explores the themes of age-different romance, prompting viewers to follow the journey from past love to adversaries and ultimately to unfamiliarity as they reconnect in a professional setting. While the humorous exchanges add an entertaining layer, the growing lack of chemistry between Ban Ju-yeon and Baek Su-jeong diminishes the impact of their romantic arc as the series progresses.
The supporting characters also add layers to the story; Im Se-mi shines as Seo Ha-jin, a woman who meticulously guards her heart after enduring significant heartbreak, and Kwak Si-yang effectively portrays the charming Kim Shin-won, a man unaccustomed to rejection. Despite their efforts, the secondary couple falls flat, lacking the compelling development that is often necessary to engage the audience fully.
Adding to the drama’s tension is Ban Ju-yeon’s grandmother, portrayed by Ban Hyo-jung, whose interactions with her grandson are marked by a harshness that stifles his potential happiness. The turnaround of her character, a self-absorbed matriarch who prioritizes her business over family, feels rushed and artificial, detracting from the plot’s authenticity.
Furthermore, the frequent ups and downs in the couples’ relationships lead to repetitiveness, draining the narrative of its initial intrigue. Each episode begins to tread familiar grounds, largely conforming to typical workplace romance tropes. Viewers may find it challenging to stay engaged unless they appreciate the comedic elements woven throughout.
For those interested in exploring a blend of romance and comedy, My Dearest Nemesis, featuring the impressive performances of Moon Ga-young and Choi Hyun-wook, is available for streaming on Rakuten Viki.