The makeover dating reality show 'Better late than single' (hereafter 'Solo Love') has concluded amidst a whirlwind of buzz.
The first dating adventures of these inexperienced singles were nothing short of unique. Clumsy yet honest, and unpredictably thrilling, their surprising breakthroughs delivered an unprecedented rush of dopamine. What started as a comedic mess evolved into a heartfelt journey as these singles navigated their first romances at their own pace and style, garnering fervent support from viewers. Experiencing new emotions, the singles laughed, cried, and couldn't hide their nervous excitement, resonating deeply with everyone's 'first time'.
The contributions of the 'SumMakers' Seo In-guk, Kang Han-na, Lee Eun-ji, and Car, the Garden were also noteworthy. From showing blatant favoritism in 'my baby moments' to delivering sharp-tongued reactions, the SumMakers' empathetic responses doubled the fun.
Above all, the authenticity of the singles, who were honest about their feelings of 'love', was the driving force behind the popularity of 'Born Solo But Want to Date'. No Jae-yoon, who underwent significant growth, shared, "It was a 'turning point' in my life. Had I not participated, I might have lived as a child trapped in an adult's body," adding, "Expressing my feelings was challenging, but taking the plunge showed me it wasn't a big deal. I hope others like me can slowly open their hearts to the people and the world around them."
Kang Ji-su, who charmed viewers with her boldness, stated, "‘Solo Love’ was a challenge to step out into the world. I hope I no longer let the problems of the past scare me away from the present." Kim Seung-ri, known for his straightforward approach, expressed, "It was an essential stepping stone to becoming a better person. I'm grateful to everyone who tolerated my frustrating aspects and laughed along. I'm learning and growing step by step, and I hope you'll continue to love all the participants."
Kim Ye-myeong, who won hearts with his direct confession, "It's you," reflected, "It was the most unfamiliar yet meaningful challenge of my life, allowing me to confront emotions and aspects of myself I had hidden away. The moment I first voiced my feelings of 'liking someone' was incredibly nerve-wracking and overwhelming."
Kim Sang-ho, who became a talking point for his unique character, remarked, "I applied to experience change and new things. It was my first time receiving attention from someone, and I regret not knowing how to accept and express it properly. I hope viewers can learn from my experience and find good relationships."
Lee Min-hong, known for his memorable quotes, left a lasting impression, "It allowed me to view myself from a third-person perspective and was the final paragraph of a new chapter. Not being in a relationship doesn't mean you're lacking; it just means you haven't met the right person yet. So, don't lose your self-esteem and keep smiling!"
Ha Jung-mok, who gained attention for his wit and sense, shared, "This journey has become a dreamlike memory of my 26th year. The moment I first arrived at the Solo Resort is unforgettable. The excitement and butterflies of that day will stay with me forever," adding, "This experience made me realize my shortcomings. It was embarrassing to face them, but I learned a lot in the process. I realized that actions excused as consideration could hurt others. I'm sorry for any discomfort I caused. Please don't hate me too much."
Lee Do, known for her adorable charm, said, "It was the most thrilling and tearful experience of my life. Living in a world made of zeros and ones, love taught me that it's something felt with the heart. It will be a beautiful memory."
Kang Hyun-kyu, who was candid about his feelings, noted, "Every moment was precious. I cherish all the times I expressed myself honestly and shared my heart sincerely. There's some regret that not all my feelings were fully conveyed, but I see it as part of the growth process, so I have no regrets. The moments I bravely showed my emotions helped me grow."
Park Ji-yeon, who was sincere about love, shared, "It was a valuable time learning that love doesn't start because it's perfect, but grows from understanding clumsy hearts. If there are others afraid to love for similar reasons, I hope you can slowly open your hearts. Love is warmer and more complete than you think."
'100-Day Catfish' Lee Seung-chan joked, "It felt like luck. I got the perfect makeover and enjoyed various emotions shared with fellow participants. I'm still single. If you know someone good, please introduce them to me," adding a touch of humor.
Kim Mi-ji also shared, "It felt like a graduation album. It was fun to shoot, embarrassing to open, but nostalgic and a reminder that I've grown a bit," humorously adding, "It was amusing to see people guessing whether I was Japanese or Korean."
The participants also expressed heartfelt thanks to the SumMakers for boosting their courage and confidence. No Jae-yoon, Ha Jung-mok, and Lee Seung-chan, mentored by Seo In-guk, said, "Without the letters from Seo In-guk, we might not have had the courage. Reading them whenever we hesitated or doubted ourselves became a source of motivation to express ourselves and take action," (No Jae-yoon), "I'm grateful for understanding even my foolish sides. It felt like gaining a supportive big brother," (Ha Jung-mok), "Thank you for the fashion surgery. It allowed me to appear as a skilled catfish. You're the savior of my fashion life," (Lee Seung-chan).
Kang Ji-su, Kim Ye-myeong, and Lee Min-hong, mentored by Kang Han-na, expressed, "I stayed on the living room sofa to keep a promise with my sister," (Kang Ji-su), "The moment she first approached and hugged me warmly is unforgettable. Her support and encouragement gave me the courage to act more boldly. I'd love to have a meal together sometime," (Kim Ye-myeong), "I used to think people don't change, but I've learned that with effort, one can change a little. I'm thankful for her weekly excitement and empathy, just like a cousin sister," (Lee Min-hong).
Lee Do, Park Ji-yeon, and Kim Mi-ji, mentored by Lee Eun-ji, shared, "Meeting her was lucky. I won't forget her advice and will strive to be a cool and sensible adult like her," (Lee Do), "Thanks to her, I learned that love starts with understanding and loving oneself. She's truly the best SumMaker!" (Park Ji-yeon), "Thank you for boosting my confidence by affirming my charm. Hopefully, the flirting skills I learned from her will shine someday," (Kim Mi-ji).
Lastly, Kim Seung-ri, Kim Sang-ho, and Kang Hyun-kyu, mentored by Car, the Garden, shared, "At first, it was a bit strange, but I could feel his genuine support and encouragement through his eyes. He became the best mentor," (Kim Seung-ri), "I'm sincerely grateful for his warm reactions and for finding my antics amusing," (Kim Sang-ho), "I have fond memories of watching his performance at a festival, and I was thrilled to meet and talk to him in person. His advice gave me confidence," (Kang Hyun-kyu).
[Photo provided by Netflix]
Kang Sun-ae sakang@sbs.co.kr
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)