tvN's Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born concluded its run on a high note, achieving its best ratings since its premiere.

According to Nielsen Korea, the 12th and final episode of the weekend drama aired on November 17, recorded an average of 17.1% and a peak of 18.8% in the Seoul metropolitan area.

Nationwide, it achieved an average of 16.5% and a peak of 18.2%, making it the top program in its time slot across all channels, including terrestrial TV.

In the finale, the struggling Maeran National Opera Troupe gathered their last bit of strength to stage their most experimental performance yet: the avant-garde opera The Tale of the Twin Towers.

Through auditions, Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born (played by Kim Tae Ri) secured the lead role of Asadal, a Baekje stonemason.

Her rival, Yeong Seo (played by Shin Ye Eun), gracefully accepted the outcome and took on the supporting role of Dalbi, a stonemason who admires but envies Asadal’s talents.

The two characters delivered breathtaking performances on stage, backed by the unwavering support of everyone who cherished Maeran.

Their passion, along with the stellar efforts of the entire cast, hinted that Maeran’s legacy would continue to thrive beyond this final show.

Notably, Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born dazzled as a groundbreaking new "prince of Maeran", presenting a bold and intense portrayal of an artist consumed by madness—a stark contrast to Ok Kyung (played by Jung Eun Chae), the previous "prince."

Set in the 1950s post-Korean War era, Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born followed the journey of a "genius born with an extraordinary voice," as she pursued her dream of becoming the greatest opera star. The drama beautifully depicted themes of rivalry, solidarity, and personal growth, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.

Kim Tae Ri’s transformation and the drama’s powerful storytelling captivated audiences, cementing Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born as a standout hit.

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IVE's Ahn Yujin just shared a sweet story about her friendship with aespa's Karina, and fans are loving the adorable details!

On January 28, Ahn Yujin appeared on Salon Drip 2 and got candid about how her friendship with Karina began.

During the show, Jang Do Yeon asked Ahn Yujin if she had ever talked to Karina, who is also a leader, about the struggles of being in charge after they performed on stage together.

Ahn Yujin revealed, “I’ve wanted to get closer to Karina for a while. I’ve focused on just becoming friends, so we didn’t really talk deeply yet, but I want to ask her more about it. Our teams are very different, but they’re all so amazing!”

When asked how she approached Karina, Ahn Yujin shyly admitted, “The first time we met was through a challenge. Karina’s team wanted to take photos with me, and I made sure to dress nicely. I was so nervous!"

She added, "I had two things I wanted to ask: ‘Can I call you unnie?’ and ‘Can I get your number?’ But I couldn’t bring myself to do it because there were just too many things on my mind. I wanted to talk well, dance well, and look good on camera.”

Ahn Yujin then explained that after a collaboration stage offer came up, she thought of Karina and even got her number through a mutual acquaintance. But, worried about making Karina feel uncomfortable, Ahn Yujin didn’t contact her right away. Instead, she waited until Karina contacted her first!

Ahn Yujin shared, “I heard Karina was talking about me, so I thought I should contact her. But then, she contacted me first,” looking genuinely touched. Jang Do Yeon teased, “You both are so cute! Are you getting close now?”

With a bright smile, Ahn Yujin responded, “Yes! We’ve decided to have a meal together soon.” She also thanked Karina for being so kind, especially when Karina texted her after practice, saying she had worked hard.

Ahn Yujin revealed, “Lately, I keep asking her if it’s okay to post pictures of us on social media,” showing just how strong their growing friendship is.

Source: [1]