Friendly Rivalry Episode 3, released on the 12th at midnight through U+tv and U+mobile tv, takes a closer look at Yoo Je-i’s past. Played by Lee Hye-ri, Yoo Je-i is a character who has kept viewers intrigued with her complex personality and unpredictable actions.
The first two episodes introduced her as the top student at Chaehwa Girls’ High School, where only the best of the best are admitted. Everyone admires her. She is smart, talented, and seemingly perfect. However, her interest in transfer student Woo Seul-gi (played by Jung Soo-bin) has raised many questions. She chose Woo Seul-gi as her partner, despite everyone else wanting to be paired with her. In Episode 2, she even stepped in to save Woo Seul-gi from danger. These actions hinted at a deeper story.
Now, with Episode 3, pieces of that story are coming together.
Yoo Je-i’s Past Revealed
Newly released stills from Friendly Rivalry glimpse Yoo Je-i’s past. In one image, a younger version of her appears very different from the composed and admired student she is now. She wears bright-colored headphones and holds a skateboard, giving off a free-spirited vibe. But her worried expression suggests that her life was not as carefree as it seemed.
Another still features Yoo Je-i’s father, Yoo Tae-joon (played by Kim Tae-hoon). His piercing gaze toward his daughter hints at a strained relationship. There is tension between them, adding more mystery to her backstory.
Episode 3, released on the 12th, takes a deeper look into Yoo Je-i’s past. The episode reveals how her life was shaped from birth. Her father, obsessed with perfection, even used astrology to ensure she was born at the “right” time. He wanted an ideal daughter—one who excelled in everything.
From a young age, Je-i was talented in both academics and sports. However, her father never focused on her efforts. He only cared about rankings and placements. Her older sister was naturally gifted, which made Je-i feel like she was always competing. She wanted to prove herself, but the pressure was overwhelming.
A Life of Expectations and Rebellion
Growing up, Je-i’s family attended church every week. But she never understood why she had to pray when she hadn’t done anything wrong. The routine felt meaningless to her. Over time, she started to drift away. She turned to smoking, drinking, and clubbing. It was her way of escaping.
One night, she had a disturbing dream. She saw herself jumping off a bridge but couldn’t swim back up. An invisible weight held her down. That weight symbolized the emotional barrier she had built around herself. It was her way of keeping people from getting too close.
A New Connection with Woo Seul-gi
After the flashback, the story shifts back to the present. Je-i takes Woo Seul-gi to a health center for a check-up. She also gifts her a new school uniform, a kind gesture that surprises Seul-gi.
Je-i has an unusual request. She wants to know how Seul-gi managed to be the top student in school without attending a cram school. In exchange, she offers to share her notes. But Seul-gi finds this deal suspicious. She feels there must be another reason behind Je-i’s sudden interest.
Later, something unexpected happens. At school, Seul-gi asks Je-i to sit with her in class. It’s a small moment, but it hints at a possible change in their dynamic. The episode leaves viewers with many questions. What are Je-i’s true intentions? Will Seul-gi trust her? The next episode will likely reveal more about this complex relationship.
What’s Next for Yoo Je-i?
With each episode, Friendly Rivalry continues to reveal more about its characters, keeping viewers engaged. Yoo Je-i is no longer just the perfect student at Chaehwa Girls’ High School. There is much more to her than meets the eye.
Episode 3 is now available on U+tv and U+mobile tv. New episodes of Friendly Rivalry are released every Monday through Thursday at midnight.
Kavita Mishra is a dynamic writer and passionate Korean entertainment enthusiast, combining her love for K-pop and K-drama with a flair for storytelling. With a keen eye for the latest trends, Kavita crafts articles that capture the pulse of K-pop idols, chart-topping hits, and the most buzz-worthy dramas taking over screens worldwide.
