Full Review: So I Married an Anti-Fan (2021)

Native Title: 그래서 나는 안티팬과 결혼했다

Overview

So I Married an Anti-Fan is a 2021 South Korean romantic comedy-drama based on the popular web novel of the same name. The series stars Choi Tae-joon as Hoo Joon, a top K-pop idol, and Choi Soo-young (Girls’ Generation) as Lee Geun-young, a magazine reporter who becomes his anti-fan (hater). The drama explores love, fame, and misunderstandings in the world of celebrity culture.

Plot Summary

Lee Geun-young, a passionate but struggling reporter, accidentally gets labeled as an anti-fan of superstar Hoo Joon after a drunken incident at his fan meeting. When a reality TV show proposes a twisted concept—forcing an idol and his anti-fan to live together—Geun-young and Hoo Joon are thrown into a chaotic cohabitation. As they clash and gradually understand each other, hidden truths about the entertainment industry, past connections, and real feelings emerge.

Cast & Performances

Choi Soo-young (Lee Geun-young) – Soo-young delivers a spunky, relatable performance as the fiery anti-fan turned unlikely love interest. Her comedic timing and emotional depth make Geun-young a likable lead.

Choi Tae-joon (Hoo Joon) – Tae-joon balances arrogance and vulnerability well, portraying the pressures of idol life while slowly revealing his softer side.

Hwang Chan-sung (JJ / Kim Jae-joon) – Jae-joon, Hoo Joon’s rival, adds an extra layer of tension and drama.

Han Ji-an (Oh In-hyung) – The cunning celebrity with hidden motives serves as a classic K-drama antagonist.

Strengths

✔ Entertaining Chemistry – The leads’ bickering-turned-romance dynamic is fun and engaging.

✔ Behind-the-Scenes Drama – The show offers a peek into the manipulative side of celebrity life, scandals, and media play.

✔ Lighthearted & Funny – The comedic moments, especially Geun-young’s antics, keep the mood upbeat.

Weaknesses

✖ Predictable Plot – The storyline follows typical rom-com tropes without much innovation.

✖ Pacing Issues – Some episodes drag, especially in the second half, with unnecessary subplots.

✖ Underdeveloped Side Characters – The supporting cast could have had more depth.

Themes & Highlights

Celebrity vs. Reality – The drama questions how much of a star’s image is real versus manufactured.

Misunderstandings & Truth – Both leads hide secrets that slowly unravel, affecting their relationship.

Love Beyond Labels – Can an idol and an anti-fan really fall in love? The series explores this unconventional premise.

Final Verdict

⭐ 7/10 – So I Married an Anti-Fan is a decent rom-com with charming leads and entertaining moments, though it doesn’t break new ground. If you enjoy light-hearted celebrity romances with a mix of comedy and drama, this is worth watching. However, those looking for deep storytelling might find it lacking.

Best For: Fans of The Greatest Love, My Love from the Star, or enemies-to-lovers tropes.

Would you like recommendations for similar dramas? 😊