New actress Choi Yoon-ji realistically unravels the complex inner world of youth, offering deep empathy and lingering resonance.
The tvN Monday-Tuesday drama "For the First Love," which premiered on the 4th, depicts the story of a single mother and her medical student daughter, who unexpectedly enter a second chapter of life and decide to live for today's happiness, facing the beginning of first love rather than the end.
Choi Yoon-ji plays the role of Lee Hyori, a young woman in her 20s who drops out of medical school and wanders through life. From the extreme contrasts of charm to heartfelt tearful performances, she brings vitality to the character by portraying everything that happens after realizing her illness with hyperrealism and delicate acting skills.
In episodes 3 and 4, Hyori exudes a fresh youth atmosphere while assisting Bohyun (played by Kim Min-kyu) amidst a subtle emotional undercurrent. Thanks to Bohyun and Tae-o (played by Yang Kyung-won), Hyori challenges herself to surf for the first time, showing her unyielding spirit as she gets back up like a Weeble after falling dozens of times. Especially, by honestly sharing their innermost feelings, she reconciles with her mother (played by Yum Jung-ah) through deep tears, enhancing their mother-daughter relationship and moving viewers.
Hyori, with her refreshing visuals, boldly confesses to Bohyun, creating subtle excitement, and finally reveals her illness to her only friend, demonstrating genuine friendship. She also expresses her distress upon seeing her mother building a house on Jeju Island for herself, saying, "It's good to live diligently, but let's live precious lives," showcasing her mature side and enhancing the charm of a developing character.
Choi Yoon-ji evokes realistic empathy as the mother and daughter, who previously lacked communication, sincerely reveal their feelings to each other and reconcile. With a strong 'Lee Hyori-style confession,' she emphasizes the character's decisive personality once again. Moreover, by honestly bringing forth her innermost feelings and her circumstances, she delicately portrays the complex emotions of youth in her 20s as a daughter and friend, solidifying the narrative of her character.
Meanwhile, "For the First Love," where viewers can fully feel Choi Yoon-ji's youthful energy, airs every Monday and Tuesday at 8:50 p.m. on tvN.
[Photo] Broadcast capture
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