Comment by Thato Mashigo on Pure Love Operation - Chapter 89

@Thato Mashigo Okay, while Sooae and Eunhyuk have the regular male lead x female lead chemistry, that doesn't mean there is none between Dohwa and Sooae. Sooae and Dohwa hit off immediately despite them being in-universe the complete opposite (with the love points). They are both dumb, game together, support each other and are (MOST IMPORTANTLY) comfortable around each other. Just like how Eunhyuk is perfect for Sooae, so could Dohwa be perfect for Sooae. That's why people are happy for the couple but they also feel bad for Dohwa. Because every ship is perfect in its own way. And it's a romance manga. There is only one "real" happy ending

@Yipixa I don't know but what you described to me sounds like a typical platonic relationship (this is nothing but what normal friends would do) and it feels like you're saying Sooae and Dohwa can't have a meaningful friendship without them having to date each other- which is why I keep saying that a happy ending doesn't have to equate to ending up together in a romantic relationship- these two can have a meaningful and impactful relationship without the "happy ending" everyone is clinging to imo.

@Thato Mashigo it's the potential behind the friendship. A key to a long lasting relationship is when the partners become best friends. I'd personally say the only difference is the obvious intimacy and attraction that comes with a romantic relationship. Which means people hope that Sooae comes to love Dohwa the same way he loves her. As far as I see the comment section, no one denies that Sooae sees Dohwa as just a friend but they do hope for more because they might prefer their chemistry (friends to lovers) than Eunhyuk and Sooae's. Or they just cant decide and just want everyone to be happy. And you misunderstood me. I said "it's a ROMANCE manga". With the emphasis on romance. You're completely right that they don't have to end up together to be happy and appreciate each other, but people read this for the romance part. If their fave doesn't end up with the female lead it is still sad even if he "grows" from this experience and goes on with his life.