Yeonju Choi is a key character in the webtoon Maybe Meant to Be, known for her dual identity as a successful romance novelist and the owner of a small café. She is a friend of Jia Han, and her complex relationship with Jia Han is central to her development throughout the series. Yeonju and Jia Han hadn't met each other in years after college and were reunited when Jia was seeking a new job recommended by Yeongdeuk Na. Yeonju has written dozens of novels and had 3 of them turn to TV shows.
History[]
Yeonju Choi first appeared during a meal with Yeongdeuk. Upon hearing Yeongdeuk mention Jia Han, Yeonju's expression visibly darkened, hinting at unresolved issues between them. Yeongdeuk’s remark, "It seems you've overcome a lot," implied Yeonju had worked through significant challenges related to Jia.
Appearance[]
Yeonju has undergone the most dramatic transformation among her peers. Beyond her glasses and facial features, almost everything about her has changed. Her hairstyle, expressions, and overall aura have become distinctly different.
Interestingly, Yeonju’s current hairstyle closely mirrors Jia's during their college years, down to the color, length, and curl placement. Her wardrobe has also shifted from dull, monochromatic outfits to vibrant clothing, occasionally reminiscent of Jia’s bold choices, such as sleeveless tops.
Relationships[]
Jia Han[]
Yeonju and Jia met in college during a general education class, bonding over their passion for writing. Both submitted to novel contests, but while Yeonju struggled, Jia effortlessly won a grand prize. Jia later introduced Yeonju's novel to Yeongdeuk, which added to Yeonju’s mixed feelings of admiration and inferiority.
Yeongdeuk reassured Yeonju that her talent was distinct and didn't need to be overshadowed by others, which helped her debut as a novelist. However, Jia abruptly retired after two publications, severing ties with Yeonju and others in the industry.
The mystery of their fallout remains unsolved, but a truth-or-dare game between them, involving a significant lie, left a lasting impact. Yeonju’s feelings toward Jia are complex, blending envy, admiration, and a desire to emulate her. This dynamic is symbolized by Yeonju adopting Jia’s old hairstyle and her subtle efforts to encourage Jia’s return to writing through her café business, 2nd.
Despite this, Yeonju’s actions occasionally suggest lingering resentment, such as deleting emails from Yeongdeuk about potential collaborations with Jia. This duality—supporting and potentially undermining Jia—reflects Yeonju’s unresolved feelings.
Yeongdeuk Na[]
Yeonju’s relationship with Yeongdeuk began when she shared her novel with him. Yeongdeuk, a latecomer to the industry, distinguished Yeonju’s “well-written” work from Jia’s “entertaining” style. While Jia’s commercial success was meteoric, Yeonju’s craft promised a dedicated following over time.
Yeongdeuk became a mentor figure, encouraging Yeonju not to feel overshadowed. Their bond extended to their personal lives, with Yeongdeuk’s son affectionately calling Yeonju “noona” (older sister), reflecting their familial closeness.
Trivia[]
- Yeonju enjoys pairing traditional Korean snacks such as yakgwa, yugwa, yanggaeng, walnut cookies, and cinnamon candies with wine. She believes the classic combination of vintage alcohol and traditional treats enhances the experience.
- Although she admires Jia’s writing, Yeonju is reluctant to admit it. Jia’s works are praised for their nostalgic charm and accessibility, qualities that resonate with Yeonju’s affinity for traditional snacks.
Legacy and Impact[]
Yeonju Choi’s journey from aspiring novelist to café manager highlights her complex relationship with ambition, inferiority, and admiration. Through her actions and evolving identity, Yeonju remains a character defined by her layered emotions and the influence of Jia Han.