My Dearest Nemesis

“My Dearest Nemesis” (native title: “그놈은 흑염룡”) is a 2025 South Korean romantic comedy drama, adapted from the popular webtoon “Black Salt Dragon” by Hye Jin‑yang, and developed by Studio Dragon for tvN. Directed by Lee Soo‑hyun and written by Kim Soo‑yeon, this 12-episode series blends a nostalgic gaming connection with the complexities of adult romance.

Plot Synopsis

High‑schooler Baek Su‑jeong (Moon Ga‑young) and junior Ban Ju‑yeon (Choi Hyun‑wook) bond over an online game – she as “Strawberry,” he as “Black Dragon.” Their in‑game romance turns hilarious and awkward when she discovers he's much younger than expected and cuts things off.

Sixteen years later, they reunite at work: Su‑jeong is a department president, and Ju‑yeon – now her boss – is the same “Black Dragon.” Sparks (and grudges) fly as old wounds clash with new ambitions.

Cast & Characters

Main Cast

• Moon Ga‑young as Baek Su‑jeong (“Strawberry”) – a sharp, no‑nonsense team leader in strategic planning at Yongseong Department Store.
• Choi Hyun‑wook as Ban Ju‑yeon (“Black Dragon”) – the ambitious head of strategic planning and chaebol heir.

Supporting Cast

• Im Se‑mi as Seo Ha‑jin – supportive bar owner and friend.
• Kwak Si‑yang as Kim Shin‑won – head of the design department
• Notables: Moon Woo‑jin (Young Ju‑yeon), Ban Hyo‑jung, Ko Chang‑seok, Son Sang‑yeon, Kim Woo‑gyeom.

Reception

Popularity

• Chart‑topper globally: Ranked No. 1 on Rakuten Viki in 136 countries (US, UK, France, India, etc.).
• Record-breaking engagement: Over 62 million online views in first two episodes.
• Viewer ratings: ~3.7 % nationally by episode 9, peaking at ~4.2 % for episode 10.
• Stream rankings: #1 on U‑Next in Japan, #2 on Vidio (Indonesia).

Critics & Fan Buzz

Pros

• Lighthearted, fluffy, sweet, with a fun gamer twist.
• Strong chemistry & comedic timing; Choi Hyun‑wook praised for “fake tsundere, heart‑on‑sleeve” performance.
• Viewers appreciate its feel-good charm amid more serious fare.

Criticisms

• Some find it formulaic, shallow, or predictable – lacking depth in side stories.
• A few felt the leads lacked chemistry or emotional resonance.

Overall fan sentiment skews positive

Many call it a fun mid-season pick‑me‑up with nostalgic themes.

Final Thoughts

“My Dearest Nemesis” is a light, engaging rom‑com packed with gamer nostalgia, workplace banter, and sweet reconciliation. It's not groundbreaking, but fans of “True Beauty” and “Business Proposal” will likely enjoy the vibe – and the online reunion trope gives it a fresh twist.

Worth Watching If You Like:

• Quirky, sweet workplace romances
• Online gaming backstories with old flames
• Low-stakes, episodic rom‑coms with consistent leads

Where to Watch

Broadcast Schedule

Aired on tvN.

Streaming Access

• South Korea: TVING.
• Japan: U‑Next.
• Globally: Rakuten Viki.

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