Seo Bum-jun Reigns as 'Ending Fairy' in 'Us, Merri-mi' with Evolving Jealousy
Actor Seo Bum-jun has cemented his status as the 'ending fairy' in the SBS Friday-Saturday drama 'Us, Merri-mi' (also known as 'The Witch's Romance' or 'The Witch's Love Story'), showcasing an evolved portrayal of a 'god of jealousy' that has captivated viewers.
Seo plays the role of (former) Kim Woo-ju, a seemingly perfect individual from a prestigious university's mathematics department, now employed at a financial firm. He's caught in a tumultuous storyline where, after getting engaged to the older Yoo Meri (played by Jung So-min), he has an affair with his ideal type Jenny (Lee Soo-min) and consequently faces a broken engagement.
His character's journey takes a turn as he's abandoned by Jenny and attempts to return to Yoo Meri. However, upon discovering Kim Woo-ju (Choi Woo-sik) by Yoo Meri's side, he becomes consumed by jealousy. In the 8th episode, broadcast on the 1st, (former) Kim Woo-ju’s fury escalates upon seeing a cozy photo of Yoo Meri and Kim Woo-ju sent by his sister, leading him to confront Yoo Meri with a formal complaint.
His attempt to deliver the complaint is thwarted when he learns that his rival for the Myungdang heir position is none other than Kim Woo-ju. This revelation causes him to lose his fighting spirit. He dramatically tears up the complaint, exclaiming "It's all in vain..." while scattering the pieces. His subsequent performance of 'Like Being Shot' in a coin karaoke booth added a humorous yet pathetic layer to his character.
Just as he seems resigned to his fate, Seo's character visits Yoo Meri's home at night to change the beneficiary of an insurance policy she took out for him. When Yoo Meri threatens to report him for stalking, he delivers a chilling line, "I think I should be the one reporting you? Was it fun while it lasted? This fake newlywed life?" hinting at a dark turn.
Seo Bum-jun is brilliantly embodying the character of (former) Kim Woo-ju, nicknamed 'pretty trash,' with a memorable performance. He seamlessly transitions from the likably impudent and charming younger man to expressing anger, frustration, and a sudden, chilling transformation, heightening viewer immersion. His captivating portrayal, shifting from pathetic to a cold, dark persona, leaves audiences eager for what comes next.
Netizens reacted with comments like, "Seo Bum-jun's acting is insane," "Ending fairy confirmed! Waiting for the next episode," and "Is it cheating to go from pathetic to cool?" expressing excitement for his acting transformation and future role.