[Photo &] Jung Eun-chae drives 'Flex x Cop 2' to 11.8%, delivers decade-later twist that revives the meaning of 'running together'

Jung Eun-chae claims 11.8% ratings peak, overpowering established universe with new charisma

SBS' Friday-Saturday drama 'Flex x Cop 2' ended its run in spectacular fashion after recording a series-high rating of '11.8%'. Jung Eun-chae, the only new cast member introduced in Season 2, seamlessly integrated into the show's firmly established universe and became one of its central pillars. In an interview held on the 22nd in Seoul's Gangnam district, she reflected, "I gave myself the assignment of figuring out whether I could blend naturally into the existing rhythm, but thanks to the perfect ensemble with my colleagues, I was able to work it out successfully." The pressure was intense for a lead actor expected to build on the previous season's success. But as the audience response climbed through the latter half of the series and the ratings confirmed that enthusiasm, the burden gave way to catharsis.

A decade of evolution, from rookie detective to counterterrorism ace Joo Hye-ra

Jung Eun-chae's character in the series, 'Joo Hye-ra', is the chief of Major Crimes Team 1 and a former ace of the National Police Agency's counterterrorism team. She is a multidimensional character who conceals an unwavering faith in her team members behind her cool judgment and poker face. Ten years ago, she played a hotheaded rookie detective in 'The Guest'. Looking back, she said, "It was fascinating to imagine and portray someone who had risen to a leadership position with time." She also spoke about her chemistry with Ahn Bo-hyun, who led the set, and Yoo Seung-ho, whose special appearance added weight early in the series, emphasizing the value of an ensemble in which the actors fill each other's gaps.

'Anna's' late surge and sharp eye for projects, with lush melodrama next

Jung Eun-chae's recent work has earned praise from both audiences and critics. The renewed attention surrounding the 2022 original series 'Anna' after it was picked up by a terrestrial broadcaster underscores her exceptional eye for projects. Jung Eun-chae explained her preference for independent, powerful characters, saying, "As an actor, it's a great relief and joy to see a carefully made project find love again beyond its original moment." After taking on a string of formidable professionals, she has set 'melodrama' as her next goal. Her announcement that she is waiting for a slow-burning project in which deep emotions between characters intersect beyond an event-driven narrative has further raised expectations for her next role.