Hyeri, a K-pop idol and actress, recently opened up about her “friendly rivalry” with fellow actor Park Bo-gum, saying that she felt jealous of his Netflix hit Tangerines’ tremendous popularity. In a lighthearted but candid interview, Hyeri remarked that although Bo-gum’s drama climbed to the top of worldwide charts, her own series debuted on the platform “a little too late” to catch the same wave of popularity.
While both actors gained international fame after starring together in Reply 1988, their latest projects marked very different streaming journeys. Bo-gum’s Tangerines became an instant smash hit across Asia and beyond, trending on Netflix within days of release. Meanwhile, Hyeri’s recent series, which received strong reviews from critics, struggled to gain momentum—largely due to its delayed release timing.
“I’m super happy for Bo-gum, but yes—I’m also a little envious,” Hyeri said with a laugh. “Timing really is everything. I wish our shows had launched closer together.” Fans praised her for her honesty and sportsmanship, noting that the candid admission only made her more relatable. Many also voiced renewed interest in checking out her series, giving it a second wind of attention.
Though Hyeri’s show initially underperformed on Netflix, her refreshingly open comments and growing support from fans may turn the tide. In an industry where competition is fierce, Hyeri’s mix of humility and humor is winning hearts—proving that friendly rivalries can still spark meaningful conversations and, sometimes, a second shot at the spotlight.
