Netflix's romantic comedy Boyfriend on Demand blends virtual reality fantasy with workplace drama, but while Jisoo and Seo In Guk bring charm and chemistry, the series struggles with uneven storytelling.
Spoiler alert: The following section contains plot details and key developments from Boyfriend on Demand. Reader discretion is advised if you wish to avoid spoilers.
A webtoon producer trapped between reality and fantasy
Boyfriend on Demand follows Mi Rae, an overworked webtoon producer who has little patience for romantic clichés. Her demanding job, difficult artists and the end of her relationship leave her emotionally drained.
After a painful breakup - and learning that her ex-boyfriend is marrying someone else - Mi Rae reluctantly signs up for a dating simulation app called Boyfriend on Demand. The platform allows users to experience idealised romantic scenarios through immersive virtual interactions.
Initially treating it as a joke, Mi Rae soon becomes captivated by the fantasy world created by the app.
Virtual romances and perfect dream dates
Inside the app, Mi Rae meets a series of attractive virtual partners played by actors including Lee Soo Hyuk, Seo Kang Jun, Lee Jae Wook and Ong Seong Wu. Each scenario feels like a living webtoon - complete with luxury jets, glamorous settings and dramatic romantic gestures.
The immersive experiences help Mi Rae rediscover the appeal of romantic storytelling, even inspiring her work as a webtoon producer. Ratings for her company's projects begin to improve as she draws ideas from the virtual romances.
However, the illusion begins to crack when she realises that her favourite virtual partner is simultaneously interacting with many other users on the platform.
Jisoo shows growth as an actor
BLACKPINK's Jisoo delivers a relatable performance as Mi Rae, portraying a woman balancing professional pressure with personal disappointment. The role gives her space to play a grounded character rather than relying purely on star power.
Seo In Guk plays Kyeong Nam, Mi Rae's colleague and rival at work. His understated humour and restrained acting style bring warmth to the story, particularly as the characters' relationship gradually shifts from rivalry to something deeper.
Their natural chemistry becomes one of the strongest aspects of the series.
Visual fantasy meets modern digital loneliness
Directed by Kim Jung Sik, the show adopts a colourful visual style inspired by webtoon aesthetics. Dream-like interiors, stylised sets and surreal dating scenarios create a fantasy environment that reflects the digital escapism of the story.
At its core, the series explores themes of modern loneliness, digital companionship and the emotional impact of technology on relationships.
Where the story loses momentum
Despite its imaginative concept, Boyfriend on Demand gradually becomes repetitive. The narrative relies heavily on the novelty of the virtual dating platform without expanding the emotional depth of its characters.
Several supporting roles feel underdeveloped, and even Seo In Guk's character sometimes lacks enough material to fully explore the emotional stakes.
As the story progresses, the plot occasionally circles around similar scenarios, reducing the impact of its central romance.
Boyfriend on Demand offers an entertaining blend of romantic comedy and virtual fantasy. Strong performances from Jisoo and Seo In Guk, combined with an appealing concept, make the series enjoyable in parts.
However, uneven writing and repetitive storytelling prevent the show from reaching its full potential. For viewers looking for a light K-drama with a tech-driven twist on romance, it remains a watchable - if imperfect - addition to Netflix's lineup.</