On the broadcast of SBS Plus and ENA’s real dating program I Am Solo on May 20, the Season 31 singles set out to clarify their feelings through "Super Dates" ahead of the final selection, sparking a romantic clash that swung between certainty and chaos.
According to Nielsen Korea, the episode recorded an average rating of 5.4% (combined SBS Plus and ENA figures for paid platform households in the metropolitan area), peaking at 5.8% per minute. It also ranked first overall in the target demographic of viewers aged 20 to 49, scoring 3.3%. The "most-watched minute" went to the preview scene showing Kyung-soo wavering after reading Young-sook's letter. Furthermore, the show proved its overwhelming popularity by claiming the top spot on the "TV-OTT Non-Drama Buzzworthiness" chart released by Good Data Corporation.
The highlight of the episode was undoubtedly the battle of nerves between Young-sook and Sun-ja over Kyung-soo. Kyung-soo had initially promised to use his Super Date ticket on Young-sook. However, when Sun-ja was taken to the hospital due to stress-induced stomach cramps, he changed his mind, stating he wanted to "focus on one person" and would use it on Sun-ja instead. In response, Young-sook actively persuaded Kyung-soo, pointing out that "his words and actions did not align." Ultimately, Kyung-soo changed his mind once again and used the Super Date ticket on Young-sook.
A tense war of nerves between Sun-ja and Young-sook was also captured during this process. Young-sook, fully dressed up in an off-the-shoulder outfit, crossed paths with Sun-ja. The two only gave slight nods while avoiding eye contact, prompting MC Defconn to shake his head in amazement, calling it "a battle of nerves on par with the Season 9 candy scene."
During her date with Kyung-soo, Young-sook boldly shook his resolve, saying, "Even if things go well with Sun-ja here, I don't think you two would last long on the outside," and "Is it right to choose someone out of pity?" As she got out of the car, she handed him a handwritten letter, telling him to "read it at the moment of decision." Later, during his delayed date with Sun-ja, Kyung-soo described his feelings as "about 7 to 3," triggering Sun-ja's gradual, escalating anger and plunging the love triangle deeper into a labyrinth.
On the other hand, some couples solidified their romantic connection. Young-ho and Ok-sun exuded the vibe of an "official couple" as they naturally shared a hug in front of the dorm entrance. In her interview, Ok-sun confidently expressed her certainty, saying, "We've already been together for three to four days. Now I understand why people engage in physical affection on broadcasts. I just want to leave this place quickly."
Jung-hee and Young-sik also overcame their hurdles to strengthen their romance. Jung-hee sensitively checked if Young-sik still had feelings for Jung-sook. In response, Young-sik declared he was going "all-in" on Jung-hee, promising, "I will talk to Jung-sook today," which brought a bright smile to Jung-hee's face.
Meanwhile, Young-soo and Young-ja's date took an awkward turn when Young-soo commented on Young-ja's outfit, saying, "It's not my preferred style." Later, Kwang-soo, who went on a Super Date with Young-ja, showed his dedication by changing his clothes to match her fashion. However, Young-ja drew a line, saying, "I don't feel any romantic attraction," leaving a bittersweet impression.
The conclusion of the seemingly endless love triangle between Kyung-soo, Sun-ja, and Young-sook, along with the final choices of the Season 31 singles, will be revealed on I Am Solo, airing on Wednesday, May 27 at 10:30 PM.
[Photo= SBS Plus, ENA]
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)