Why Everyone Is Watching BLACKPINK’s Jisoo Closely in Netflix’s New Series “Boyfriend on Demand”

Some K-pop idols transition smoothly into acting. Others face a much harder journey.

For BLACKPINK’s Jisoo, the conversation around her acting has often been divided praised by fans but criticized by some viewers who questioned her performance in her past projects. Now, with Netflix’s new series “Boyfriend on Demand” premiering today (March 6), many viewers are wondering the same thing:

Could this be the role that changes the narrative?

The unusual romance concept that caught viewers’ attention

At the center of the drama is a concept that already feels different from typical romance stories.

“Boyfriend on Demand” follows the story of Mi-rae, a webtoon producer that is exhausted by the demanding, mundane daily life. Instead of finding traditional relationships she discovers a virtual dating service that allows users to experience romantic scenarios in a virtual world. With the device she can access up to 900 different themed dates and romantic fantasies.

A role that seems tailor made for Jisoo

Jisoo plays a complex character, Mi-rae, who has become emotionally cautious after experiencing difficult past relationships. For Jisoo, the role marks her first full romantic comedy lead, and many fans believe the character fits her natural personality.

Opposite her is Seo In-guk, known for his strong romantic drama performances. He plays Kyung-nam, Mi-rae’s colleague at work someone who is respected as an office ace but remains difficult for her to understand. When the two are assigned competing webtoon projects and become late night coworkers, their relationship begins to shift in unexpected ways.

Director Kim Jung-sik previously hinted that the evolving relationship between Mi-rae and Kyung-nam will be one of the drama’s biggest highlights.

A surprising lineup of “virtual boyfriends”

One of the series’ most talked about elements is the large number of special appearances. Because the story explores different virtual dating scenarios, the show introduces a wide range of characters representing fantasy romantic partners.

Actors appearing in these segments include:

• Seo Kang-joon
• Lee Soo-hyuk
• Ong Seong-wu
• Lee Jae-wook
• Lee Hyun-wook
• Kim Young-dae
• Jay Park
• Lee Sang-yi

Each of them portrays a different type of “virtual boyfriend,” from a charming college senior to a mysterious secret agent.

Fans are already debating Jisoo’s performance

Even before the release, the drama has been a major topic among fans online. Some viewers say they are excited to see Jisoo return to acting, especially in a lighter romantic comedy format. Others say the role could be an important turning point for her acting career.

One fan wrote on social media: “A rom-com feels perfect for Jisoo. I’m curious to see a more natural side of her acting.”

Another viewer commented: “People criticized her before, but this kind of role might suit her much better.”

Of course, not everyone is convinced yet. Some viewers say they are waiting to watch the series before deciding whether her acting has improved. That mixture of curiosity and debate is exactly why many people are watching the drama closely.

And whether viewers tune in for the concept or Jisoo’s performance, one thing is certain. “Boyfriend on Demand” is already one of the most talked about new dramas of the week.