tvN’s Love Your Enemy Finale Sparks Mixed Reactions: “Worst Ending Ever” vs. “Why the Hype?”

2024-12-31 11:35

tvN Weekend Drama Love Your Enemy Ends with Its Highest Ratings at 6.5%

The tvN weekend drama Love Your Enemy, starring Ju Ji-hoon and Jung Yu-mi, has concluded with its highest ratings of 6.5%. However, reactions from viewers have been divided, with mixed reviews about its ending.

Mixed Viewer Reactions to the Finale of Ju Ji-hoon and Jung Yu-mi’s Drama Love Your Enemy. / tvN

Starting with a modest 3.5% for its first episode, the drama steadily gained traction, wrapping up on December 29. While the story earned praise for its unique concept, criticism was directed at the final episode’s execution and character styling.

A Tale of Reunited First Loves

Love Your Enemy follows the reunion of two individuals, Yoon Ji-won (Jung Yu-mi) and Seok Ji-won (Ju Ji-hoon), born on the same day into rival families. The plot unravels 18 years after a rooftop incident that shaped their lives, culminating in a bittersweet resolution.

The moment when their misunderstandings are cleared, and they confirm their love in an attic filled with memories of their first romance, was particularly well-received. However, the depiction of their wedding preparation left many viewers disappointed.

Love Your Enemy Concludes with a Happy Ending. / tvN

Criticism of the Finale

Jung Yu-mi’s wedding dress was a particular point of contention. The 1980s-inspired design and outdated styling were criticized for detracting from the drama’s immersive quality. Seok Ji-won’s instant admiration for the dress further alienated viewers.

The wedding shoot scene also drew complaints for its cliché elements, such as the groom’s tardiness and a sudden storm interrupting the shoot. The familial arguments during the meeting of the two families added to the sense of predictability.

The Wedding Shoot Scene of Yoon Ji-won (Jung Yu-mi) and Seok Ji-won (Ju Ji-hoon) Revealed in the Final Episode. / tvN

The Couple Faces Stormy Weather During Their Wedding Shoot. / tvN

Viewer Reactions

Many fans expressed frustration with the ending, leaving comments on highlight clips such as:

“The ending was so disappointing.”

“Such a waste of Ju Ji-hoon and Jung Yu-mi’s chemistry. They deserve a better rom-com together.”

“The wedding dress was shocking. What were they thinking?”

“If only it had been a 16-episode series, the story could’ve developed better.”

On the other hand, others defended the drama:

“For me, this was the best drama of the year. It had just the right amount of depth and emotion.”

“The small wedding vibe of the dress was charming. Why are people upset?”

“The story about first love and forgiveness was deeply moving.”

Yoon Ji-won and Seok Ji-won in Their Childhood Days. / tvN

A Mixed Legacy

Despite the polarizing finale, Love Your Enemy captivated audiences with Ju Ji-hoon and Jung Yu-mi’s exceptional performances and chemistry. The narrative’s exploration of long-standing misunderstandings and its heartfelt resolution added depth to the romance, offering viewers more than just a simple love story.

What’s Next?

The follow-up to Love Your Enemy is the highly anticipated When The Stars Gossip, starring Lee Min-ho and Gong Hyo-jin. This space romantic comedy, set between Earth and a space station, will premiere on January 4. The drama boasts a five-year production period and a budget of 50 billion won, promising to be a grand-scale project.