High school Kdramas are often popular amog Kdrama lovers. These dramas not only gives us a glimpse of how the school life is in South Korea, but also keep us hooked with their funny and emotional storylines.
Friendly Rivalry is another school Kdrama. But it focuses less on funny stuff and more on the rivalries among students. The drama is based on a popular webtoon of the same name. It stars Hyeri, Chung Su Bin, in the lead roles.
A school of elites
The story of Friendly Rivalry takes place inside Chaehwa Girls’ High School. It is not a regular high school, but an institution where only the best and brightest thrive. The students of this school are from Korea’s top 1%, they excel in academics and come from powerful families. It’s a world where competition isn’t just encouraged—it’s a way of life.
At the top of this social and academic hierarchy is Yoo Jae Yi (played by Hyeri). The girl who is admired for her excellence not only by teachers but also the students. Jae Yi is like the Queen of this school. Her father is a renowned doctor and wields significant influence in the school’s inner workings.
The Arrival of an Outsider
The entry of Woo Seul Gi (played by Chung Su Bin) in the school shakes things up. Unlike her wealthy classmates, Seul Gi grew up in an orphanage and has fought for everything in her life. She doesn’t like to be in the spotlight, she likes to remain unnoticed. But things change when Jae Yi starts taking interest in her.
Jae Yi isn’t someone who makes friends, but her sudden interest in Seul Gi, raises suspicion in everyone’s mind. For some mysterious reasons, Seul Gi, also wants to get close to Jae Yi.
More Than Just Competition
The school is a home to girls with different personalities, each with their own dreams and unique role.
Joo Ye Ri (played by Kang Hye Won) reigns as the queen of gossip, obsessed with status and luxury. Choi Kyung (played by Oh Woo Ri) is determined to prove she’s more than just the second-best student.
In the first few episodes we come to know that Jae Yi’s father has a connection with Seul Gi’s father who was a university exam question setter, and died at his hospital. But we don’t know what really happened.
The drama doesn’t just explore high school politics—it delves deep into family dynamics, the pressure to succeed, and the psychological battles that come with wanting to be the best. Every character has a hidden agenda of her own. The way the drama explores these hidden agenda seems to make the story interesting. The powerful performance by these actors also add a plus point.
What do you think about this Kdrama? Are you watching it?
