Boyfriend on Demand

Disappointing rom-com

Rom-coms notoriously make or break on lead actors performance while story is second thought.

FL was just ok, i have seen her before and while i think she has gotten better, she isn't able to have the presence necessary to lead FL focused rom-com. Her acting falls short and i don't find it good enough for the concept.

ML is a huge disappointment. He feels less developed than the imaginary boyfriends FL meets and he is extremely bland, i've seen this actor before and i certainly expected better from him.

Story was slight disappointment too, i felt like imaginary boyfriend game was used too much that it took away from MLs character and it was bit too much. Though premise kinda told it so i won't hold it against it too much.

Overall:
It was mid rom-com and it was ok one time watch. I expected better from everyone. I wouldn't recommend it as there is plenty of better choices.

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Great idea, terrible execution

I waited for this kdrama for a good while, and was really expecting a good story but it did not deliver.
It's almost the same as the anime "Rent a Girlfriend", but better. Has similar aspects such as going on dates with a pretty person.

I didn't have any feels for the main character Seo Mi-rae. Jisoo is beautiful, her visuals are good, but her acting skills in this show are like watching cardboard try to cry. I didn't have one spark of feels for the character. Every time the character is supposed to be heartbroken, in love, and so on, she just has the same look. It's hard to have feels for the character when the actress looks like she's just thinking about nothing inside her head.

The chemistry between the two main leads were non-existent. Seo In-guk was doing all the heavy lifting, but you can't have fire without two matches. Their romance was so forced.

At first I thought the idea of an AI Boyfriend IRL was interesting. But the whole thing with the AI Boyfriend started getting old after episode 3. We get it, he's perfect, he's fake let's move on please?? The drama spent way too much time on virtual dates instead of actually making the real life characters likable.

And don't get me wrong, all the comedy aspects in this drama was great, and actually funny. But it really just got boring after a while and I wanted it this drama to just end.

LIKES:

- The Cameos: Honestly, the only reason to watch. Lee Soo-hyuk and Lee Jae-wook actually looked like they wanted to be there.

- The Music: The OST's are great. The songs managed to deliver more than the script itself.

- The Aesthetics: It looked expensive, it looked nice. Shame they spent all that money on lights and none on a better script (guess one of the reasons why they didn't put the screenwriter).

DISLIKES:

- Jisoo's Acting: I'm sorry, but she just was just mediocre. She's too stiff. No range, just vibes. She's better of than just being an idol instead of trying to force into being an actress. But she still did manage to pull of some scenes though. Tbh, she should've just left it at Newtopia and focused on singing and dancing.

- Zero Logic: Why is she a "genius" producer if she can't solve a single basic problem without her VR boyfriend? She was written to be “strong” but came off as totally helpless.

- The Ending: After all that waiting, the payoff was so weak. It felt like as if I was robbed of my time.

OVERALL:

Boyfriend on Demand is what happens when you have a huge budget, big stars, but no soul. The drama is really not wow worthy but just, fine. It's pretty to look at, but it's garbage on inside. If you want to see Jisoo look pretty, watch her music videos. If you want to watch a good drama, skip this.

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Fear of loneliness, and Fear of what happened after Love is found

Subjective Gut Rating: 8.5
Objective Rating: 8.0

Disclaimer:
The high rating might be skewed and definitely subjective because I am looking for a happy, stress-free watching due to real life’s stress. “Boyfriend on Demand” gave me a dose of happiness in the virtual and drama worlds. Therefore, you may not agree with my rating or review, and that is A-OK 🙂

The general plot of “Boyfriend on Demand” is nothing special. There are many similar dramas already, with characters escaping reality’s struggles and addicted to an alternate reality. But of course, this will eventually blow up, but through the process, the main characters usually find their way of knowing who they really are, and as in rom-com fashion, find love at the end of the process. “Boyfriend on Demand” follows a very similar script. Whether this is a good or bad thing, depends on what you are looking for.

The first half of the drama focuses a lot on the different virtual boyfriends our female lead, Mi Rae, met in virtual reality. Guest stars Seo Kang Jun (eps 2-5), Lee Soo Hyuk (eps 1-2) and Choi Si Won (eps 9-10) have the most screen time, respectively. Seo Kang Jun, with his beautiful and sparkly eyes, is definitely the star of all the guest stars. He reminds me of his sweet character in “When The Weather is Fine”. His pink college heartthrob storyline and the perfect green flag captures the audience’s hearts. He is just so damn beautiful. Let’s not forget the mature second-chance romance boyfriend who is considerate and caring. Who wouldn’t want a VR boyfriend like him? We were actually first introduced to cold chaebol, played by the sexy Lee Soo Hyuk. You know, the cliche CEO is cold to everyone but doting on the female lead? Yup, that’s him. This is probably the closest to me watching a mature and sexy Lee Soo Hyuk in a romantic comedy. There are several other virtual boyfriends introduced (though limited screentime) that are also quite fun.

Some might complain that the drama focuses too much on these VR boyfriends early on, especially if you are a fan of Seo In Guk. He does have limited screen time but this is to set up the character development of FL for when their romance finally develops. Afterall, this is a story of Mi Rae, and all the other handsome guys are just part of her journey. But don’t worry, Seo In Guk has plenty of scenes later on. His dual roles are fun and I love seeing a shy guy open up. His cute flirting and courting of Mi Rae are endearing.

There are many reasons for women to sign up for “Boyfriend on Demand”. It could be accidental, or they are lonely, or they are stressed out in real life, or they just need a space where they could date around and not be judged by society’s eyes. This drama scratched the surface of some of these reasons, though not in detail. But no matter what, this ‘secret’ will eventually be revealed and these women will have to deal with the aftermath. I personally felt that the writer’s story arc didn’t quite receive the full closure in respect to the backlash, but it did close on a personal note.

Mi Rae’s journey with these boyfriends helped her grow. The revelation of her use, though predictable, was handled well. I shed a few tears in the last couple episodes, but not in a really sad and angsty way. I felt for her and also her boyfriend’s hesitancy. Of course, one could criticize that all you need is to talk to each other. Very true, but in reality, it isn’t that simple and the drama doesn’t drag that for long.

Despite mixed reviews, I really had a great time binge-watching “Boyfriend on Demand”. It might not have offered anything unique, but the colorfulness, the ridiculousness, the comedy (not too over-the-top), the cuteness and fluffiness, and the romance all work for me. As I said, I am intentionally seeking out dramas like this to satisfy my need. It worked out perfectly for me. Now I am recharged! Do I recommend it? It really depends on what you are looking for. For something fun, colorful and easy…of course! For something unique and not cheesy…probably not.



Completed: 3/22/2026 Review #676

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A Cute Rom-Com That Surprised Me: delulu to trululu

I enjoyed watching Boyfriend on Demand because it was light, fun, and easy to follow. At first, I was a bit confused and wasn’t sure Iwould keep watching because I hadn't seen the trailer to see what the drama would be. But when Seo Kang‑joon appeared, I started to enjoy the drama more.

The concept of having a customised boyfriend is interesting and made the story feel fresh for a rom-com. Honestly, it made me a little delulu while watching—I even wished we had something like that in real life.

Some moments genuinely surprised me, making the drama less predictable than I expected.

The chemistry between the leads was cute and natural, and they were naturally funny as well. Overall, the drama had a comforting and entertaining vibe. If you’re looking for something romantic, lighthearted, and easy to binge, this is definitely a good watch.

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!! A drama to break free from stress !!

Before I watched, I was worried that what if it becomes flat with just famous actors’ cameo because I didn't like the drama like 7 first kisses. But luckily it was not. I like the way Female Lead always turned back to reality and the plot which makes her turn to it.

I really like how they portrayed a love story between the leads. Some scenes are just simple but romantic. I especially enjoyed the confession scene. Even thought the story is somehow fantasize about AI, I really like they did not take it too far. Because some drama took it too far and include so much plots which they end up badly.

I have seen many comments about Female Lead’s acting. But the actress did an amazing job and I feel this character is exactly for her. But there are also some weakness but I can pass. I enjoied the Male Lead's character here. The Male Lead did a great job to portray his character.

I would say this is a good drama to watch in 2026 compared to other dramas we got so far in similar genere. It might have weakness but those are just minors.

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A drama that will instantly boost your dopamine

Finally finished watching this. I think I’m a little late, but I really enjoyed the show.

First, I have to talk about the Jisoo × Seo Kang Joon chemistry. I swear their chemistry is still top-tier for me 😭 I seriously need a drama with just the two of them as the main leads. The way their characters dated and then reunited after 10 years felt so real that I almost thought they were the main couple.

Honestly, this drama feels like the perfect example of a rom-com. The way Jisoo delivers comedy moments is so natural that sometimes it feels like it’s just *Jisoo being herself*, not Seo Mirae.

And Seo In Guk’s cold character was charming too. At first I was wondering why he had fewer scenes, but in the last three episodes he really owned the screen, and it totally paid off with their chemistry.

No wonder people are loving this drama and calling Jisoo a rom-com goddess

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It's definitely something

Honestly this drama isn't for the faint of heart if u don't like AI futuristic near horroe shows don't watch this. The story follows a woman who uses a virtual reality boyfriend simulator to go on dates with picture perfect men but feeling she's part of a commodity of women and just another number she goes a steo further and creates a perfect ideal man who a large survey but then this giu she created looks exactly like a coworker who she then dates and he finds out and within 2 episodes forgives her and continues the relationship?

Well this is very weird,i know it's a tv show we can't take it and apply it to the logics of the real world but it's very creepy. Imagine if that concept was gender bent or happened in the real world ?
the backlash? the horror? the disgust? i would even pursue criminal charges.

But it's a show that's supposed to be romantic and carefree so we can't take it to heart. I think the story wasn’t that bad no need for 10 episodes tho could have been 8 because it got draggy in the end. Furthermore it's an okay show would never rewatch it under normal circumstances tho. Also i think i am one of the few people ho thought Jisoo did a good job? she wasn't bad at all pretty good and I'm an ARMY . In the end i think inrated it high because i enjoyed the fact it was a different concept then what we were used to.

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a weak actress with a whole list of great actors in a waste script and story

What a waste of time and talent. a few established, talented actors in a meaningless drama. manipulation of young women on a grand scales. sexy actors that take the eyes for views. the story and the script is mediocre. in the last year a lot of good actors have acted in mediocre dramas. what is happening in korea? so much talent ruined by a very bad script.

Ji soSoo you have to take some acting classes. Your eyes don't transmit anything. Sorry but you did not touch any centimeter of my heat with your acting. I dont hate you but you are not my cup of tea as an actor.

AI implants and propaganda, disempowerment and fake life. Manipulation and sale of souls.

Anyway the new generations no longer have any self-worth, and life values. it is easy to fall prey to an artificial life. Better watch the movie HER and learn something. you really don't learn anything from here.

I loved to see Seo In Guk & Yoo In Na but they deserve a good script.
I cant recommend this. is my second worst drama after our universe (her universe) in 2026.

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I almost forgot how i liked watchig this drama after readjng all those hate comment.

I really hate the fact that all you do is hate Jisoo. They say that they don't like her acting at all, looks stiff, no emotion at all. If the haters were asked to point out where they don't like her acting,can they really do it? I cringed when she acted cringe . I laughed when she acted happy . When she cried ,I also cried . I sincerely felt the story through their acting . I know the chemistry didn't show from the start and started a little late but that's because of the storyline and overall the drama was short. But i would say I could feel the chemistry despite that . And overall i like the story

I would love if the couple showed more screentime but the story focuses on 'boyfriend on demand'

Lets discuss the topic 'boyfriend on demand'
It helped Seo mi rae in healing from the wounds her ex boyfriend gave. I would say it played a major role on her until the end.
- Eun ho sunbae (character in boyfriend on demand) made her think of her ex and actually help in healing her
- her ideal boyfriend (the character she made) helped her in realising her feelings for park kyeong nam and at a bit point giving her tips on getting her better when her boyfriend (park kyeong nam ) found out she used 'boyfriend on demand' and overall when he saw his face being a character on it.
What i really liked about fl is that her character.
-i catch on her competent nature from her little habit on walking ahead of people. Esp in front of ml. That made me giggle as i see the chemistry beneath all those enemies troupe or should i say (hating each other acts).
-She hates cheaters and she is not herself. I catch on that even virtual characters count. Her attachment on one charater points out that she wants true love and know the meaning of it.
She analysed her true feelings when she started to like ml using the virtual ideal bf.
-and to those haters yelling on the character that she doesn't fit that genius producer (she won't have to need on the 'bod' guys please she was wounded and was in the phase she thought she was better alone . She forget all those romantic moments . How could she get the ideas when she was dull herself? She got those ideas from the fling moment. And webtoon ...that's all about puting your feelings into . With no emotions ,how could one ? Huh .
I like the ending when she said goodbye to the virtual character
I was on my toes how would the story of the couple would end but i was satisfied when she said
Now it's 'us'
So i was rest assured they would last long and endure together . Let me say this 'I love HAPPY ENDINGS.
And one thing why I like this drama is they tried to show how different individuals use the 'bod'
The webtoon artist and her freind.
Let's end this . If you stayed reading this upto the end I really appreciate it. This is my first review on drama. That's the dedication pulled out when one truly loves the drama and the cast and haters went on hating
ONCE AGAIN HAPPY ENDING!!

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Fun binge

This really was a fun drama. I love it when men really melt into their loved one's touch, and yearn for them without the other knowing. Seo Inguk really did this. Tbh, his caracter wasn't really deep (even though there was a part where we started seeing his ponit of view and his thoughts. Which I LOVED, Idk why but I love it when we see the male pov) but i feel like if it wasn't for him i wouldn't like his caracter. He played it really well, it really shows how good of an actor he really is. If it were anyone else, i wouldn't have liked it. Also, all of my favorite actors in one drama, AMAZING. It felt weird, but also was very refreshing. I loved the side caracters as well, they were written very well, have to congratulate the senarist, they did a really good job.

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I Expected a Romcom Popcorn Flix and that's what I got.

It's a typical Romcom, nothing special.
The VR(AI like Dating sim) is definitely a timely topic. I mean South Korea and Japan birth rate is all time low and this is one of the many reason( If you dont have much money and you dont want to get stressed out then u do this.

For example Dating Sims, Visual Novels, even the gaaaccha ones. Wether you like men or women.

As for the story its simple and relatable.
Its something I could watch on the get go as theres not much thinking to do.

POPCORN ROMCOM FLIX. 🍿
Biased opinion from a romcom lover like me.
Watched all the Harem or Romance Anime. Prob one of the reason I liked this.

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Swipe Right on AI, Left on the Plot

Boyfriend on Demand is built on a premise that feels both futuristic and alarmingly believable. The series follows Seo Mi-rae, a webtoon producer whose life runs on a relentless loop of deadlines, caffeine, and quiet existential dread. She is overworked, emotionally drained, and so buried in her job that dating an actual human being probably feels like signing up for a second full-time position. So when she is offered the chance to test a subscription platform that allows users to experience romantic relationships with AI-generated boyfriends inside immersive fantasy scenarios, she does what any exhausted modern person would do. She clicks “yes” immediately.

And honestly, the first half of the drama is genuinely fun.

The concept taps directly into a very modern fantasy. Romance without inconvenience. These virtual partners are attractive, attentive, emotionally articulate, and perfectly tailored to the user’s preferences. They never forget anniversaries, never say something so baffling that it makes you question their entire personality, and never send those mysterious one-word text replies that somehow carry the emotional weight of a slammed door. The show understands exactly why this fantasy is appealing, and it leans into it with a playful energy that makes the early episodes entertaining.

Part of that charm comes from the rotating parade of AI “boyfriends” Mi-rae encounters inside the platform. Each scenario drops her into a carefully engineered love story designed to feel like the ideal romantic experience. The series even has fun with cameo appearances from actors like Seo Kang-joon and Lee Jae-wook, who pop up as various fantasy partners generated by the system. It is playful, a little ridiculous, and exactly the kind of premise that could spiral into something wonderfully strange if the show fully committed to exploring it.

Meanwhile, Mi-rae’s real life is far less dreamy. Her most consistent interaction with actual humans seems to involve arguing with her coworker Park Gyeong-nam, played by Seo In-guk. He is competent, calm, and irritatingly composed. He is the type of person who somehow manages to handle everything perfectly while everyone else around him looks like they are slowly unraveling. Their dynamic practically shouts that this will become the real romance. The show telegraphs it so loudly that it might as well flash it across the screen in neon.

What makes the premise intriguing is the uncomfortable question lurking underneath it. If someone could experience a perfectly curated romantic relationship in a digital environment, why would they willingly return to the messy unpredictability of real people? Real relationships involve misunderstandings, emotional baggage, awkward silences, and the occasional moment when you look at someone you supposedly love and wonder why they chew food like that.

For a brief moment, the series seems interested in exploring those ideas. It hints at becoming a story about how seductive engineered intimacy could be and how easily someone might drift into a world where romance is always satisfying and never complicated.

Unfortunately, the drama never pushes that idea nearly as far as it should.

Around the midpoint, the story begins repeating itself. Mi-rae cycles through different virtual boyfriends and fantasy scenarios, but the narrative does not evolve much beyond that pattern. The show seems oddly reluctant to dig into the psychological or ethical implications of the platform, which is ironic because that is the most compelling part of the entire concept. Instead of examining why someone might genuinely prefer a flawless digital partner to a real human being, the story gradually drifts away from the technology altogether.

Before long, the virtual dating premise fades into the background, and the series transforms into something far more familiar. It becomes a workplace romantic comedy about two coworkers who argue constantly but are clearly destined to fall in love. It is not a terrible shift, but it does make the original concept feel less like the engine of the story and more like decorative window dressing.

Mi-rae herself is also a somewhat uneven protagonist. She is clearly meant to be relatable, a hardworking professional who stumbles into an escapist fantasy. However, the writing occasionally nudges her behavior into territory that feels immature or oddly unprofessional. Watching her become increasingly absorbed in the platform makes emotional sense at times, but there are moments when you cannot help thinking that someone with her career responsibilities should probably have a little more self-control.

Performance-wise, the cast delivers solid work across the board. Jisoo brings a likable warmth to Mi-rae, while Seo In-guk has the kind of effortless screen presence that can make even a restrained character interesting. The issue is not the actors. The problem is that the script does not give them enough material to build a truly compelling relationship. Their chemistry flickers occasionally, but the story never digs deeply enough into their emotional dynamic to make the romance especially memorable.

In the end, Boyfriend on Demand is a drama that never quite reaches the potential of its premise. It begins with a idea about digital intimacy and the seductive promise of perfectly engineered romance, but eventually retreats into the comfortable territory of a conventional romantic comedy.

And that is a little disappointing, because the concept had the potential to be strange, unsettling, and unexpectedly insightful about the way technology shapes modern relationships. Instead, the series settles for something lighter and far more familiar.

It is still pleasant to watch, but it just feels a bit like ordering a bold experimental dish, only to realize halfway through that it is basically comfort food wearing a futuristic costume.

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