The South Korean slice-of-life drama Love Next Door traces the story of childhood boyfriend-girlfriend-friends, with themes of family and adulthood at its core. The show stars Jang Hae-in (DP) and Jang So-min (Alchemy of Souls) in the lead roles. This is Hae-in’s first romantic drama in her life.

In an exclusive chat with India Today Digital, Jung Hye-in talks about her character Choi Seung-hyo, a former potential national-level swimmer turned architect. Hae-in, known for his intense roles, explores a more playful side with Seung-hyo. She also shared insights about her chemistry with Jung So-min and how they portrayed the transformation from childhood friends to lovers, as well as her wish to meet her Indian fans in person soon .

Excerpts from the interview:

What were your first impressions of your character, Choi Seung-hyo, and Jung So-min as your co-star?

I was surprised to find that Choi Seung-hyo’s character had many similarities with mine, Jung Hae-in. Of course, the background and environment are different, but the life values ​​and the way of treating people were quite similar. As for my first impression of actress Jang So-min, she initially seemed introverted and quiet. I think it was because we were both a little shy in the beginning. However, it didn’t take long for us to get closer.

How did you create such an effortless chemistry with So-min on screen? Did you discuss how to make the childhood friends-to-lovers dynamic feel natural?

Since the characters in the drama were old friends, I think we both made an effort to get closer before filming started. To delicately convey the transition from friends to lovers, we exchanged many ideas and discussed how to portray the emotional changes and actions during filming.

Romantic comedy is a challenging genre because everything has to align for the audience to root for the couple. Did you take inspiration from any classics for your portrayal of Seung-hyo?

I did not refer to previous works for inspiration. Instead, I focused on understanding and becoming familiar with the character Choi Seung-hyo after receiving the script. I believed that building trust and rapport with actress Jang So-min was the most important part.

How did you interpret Seung-hyo and Seok-ryu’s relationship at the beginning of the drama?

At the beginning of the drama, I see Seung-hyo and Seok-ryu as childhood friends who have known each other for a long time. They are comfortable with each other because they know about each other’s embarrassing moments.

What’s your favorite scene in the show, and how much did you and So-min improvise on set?

My favorite scene is when Seung-hyo dives into the pool with the time capsule, followed by Seok-ryu. This is a scene where we can see the feelings and trust between them, and I like it because it represents them overcoming their personal traumas. I also appreciate the part where despite failure they move forward without any fear.

You have played a variety of characters throughout your career. Is it challenging to keep playing different roles, especially with your growing popularity?

I believe it is always important to have a challenging mindset. It is a great pleasure for me to portray different characters in different projects.

In terms of love, you have explored various aspects in dramas such as Something in the Rain, One Spring Night, and Snowdrop. Which character do you connect with the most in real life?

Although aspects of my values ​​and personality are reflected in each character, it’s hard to pick one because the environments are so different.

You were recently in Cannes for I, The Executioner and it’s been released. Does it seem unrealistic to have both a hit drama and an anticipated movie coming out at the same time?

It was not intentional that both the film and the drama be released at the same time, but as an actor, I am happy to showcase different sides of myself and my acting to both the audience and the audience.

You have mentioned earlier that you are aware of the love you get from Indian fans. Do you think a fan meeting could happen in India soon?

First of all, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the fans in India for watching my projects and supporting me as an actor. If I get a chance, I would love to come to India and meet my fans in person.

Love Next Door has 16 episodes and is available on Netflix. This was Jang Hae-in and Jang So-min’s first drama together.