table of content table of content
The new drama I DOL I finally reveals the incredible duality of Sooyoung's character. In this legal romance tinged with mystery, she plays Maeng Se-na, a lawyer renowned for her tenacity... but also a loyal fangirl for 11 years, ready to do anything to support her favorite idol, Do Ra-ik, played by Kim Jae-yeong.
An icy lawyer... who lives for her bias
In the legal world, Maeng Se-na is known as the "lawyer of devils". She doesn't shy away from any case, especially those that others refuse. The new photos show her in full display of composure: an egg thrown by journalists, which she blocks without flinching, and an imperturbable posture in court, her sharp gaze affirming that she never loses.
But behind this mask of absolute authority, another Se-na exists. The images reveal her daily life as a relentless fangirl: online ticketing battles, house parties surrounded by Gold Boys merchandise, and unconditional love for Do Ra-ik. The prospect of defending this same idol when he becomes a suspect in a murder case creates explosive narrative tension.
In an interview, Sooyoung explains: "The fan-idol dynamic set against the backdrop of a criminal investigation struck me as unique and fun. The way the series portrays fan love (which I know well) is adorable and very realistic." She adds that she wanted to take up the challenge, having never played a lawyer before.
A strong, cold but deeply sincere heroine
Concerning Se-na, Sooyoung explains: "She may seem cold, but she's a professional who acts according to clear principles. However, on the fangirl side, she's incredibly pure: that's where her joy, love and energy lie. This contradiction is her charm. She says she focused on making her believable, as "someone you could actually come across in life".
The actress also speaks of Se-na's inner strength: "She has a solid emotional base, she doesn't waver in the face of hurtful comments or scorn. It was from this stability that I understood what Ra-ik means to her."
This dual identity promises a vibrant story, part judicial tension, part romantic comedy and part authentic representation of fandom.
I DOL I will be broadcast from December 22 at 10pm (KST) on ENA, and is waiting for an international distribution platform.
