Can Jisoo silence acting criticism with Netflix’s ‘Boyfriend On Demand’?

It marks her fifth acting project. As a member of BLACKPINK, Jisoo has enjoyed global popularity, but attention is now focused on whether she can shed past criticisms of her acting and prove her growth through Netflix’s upcoming series ‘Boyfriend On Demand’.

Set to premiere on March 6, ‘Boyfriend On Demand’ is a romantic comedy about Mi Rae, a webtoon producer exhausted by reality, who subscribes to and experiences virtual romance through a dating simulation device. Blending relatable workplace life with the fresh concept of “subscribed love” in a virtual world, the series aims to deliver both empathy and lighthearted fun. Jisoo stars alongside Seo In Guk, with director Kim Jung Sik — known for hits such as ‘Work Later, Drink Now’ and ‘No Gain No Love’ — at the helm.

Jisoo plays Seo Mi Rae, a busy webtoon producer accustomed to a life without romance. After obtaining the “Boyfriend On Demand” device, she enters a virtual world and encounters seemingly perfect men, gradually rediscovering feelings she had long forgotten. Ahead of the release, Jisoo shared, “I’m ready to let viewers experience vicarious excitement.”

With its trendy premise and unique setup, the series places significant importance on the lead actor’s ability to embody the character. Jisoo’s bright and refreshing image suits the romantic comedy genre, and her casting has generally been met with positive reactions. If her established charm blends naturally with the character, the show’s commercial potential could benefit.

However, lingering criticism regarding her acting remains a key hurdle. In previous projects, Jisoo faced scrutiny over vocal delivery, line articulation, and facial expressions — particularly in emotionally intense scenes. Following her first leading role in JTBC’s ‘Snowdrop’ (2021), debates about her acting ability intensified, with some critics arguing she struggled to carry a title role despite it being her formal acting debut. Subsequent appearances in other projects drew similar assessments, reinforcing calls for visible growth.

Jisoo undeniably holds strong global fandom power and brand recognition, which serve as advantages at the casting stage. Yet as she continues to take on lead roles, expectations for acting credibility have risen accordingly. With ‘Boyfriend On Demand’, industry watchers and viewers alike are closely observing whether she can deliver a performance that matches her star power and finally turn the page on years of debate surrounding her acting skills.