At first glance, Baek Dohwa appears to be the quintessential male lead from a Korean romance story: exceptionally handsome, effortlessly popular, and shrouded in rumors of being an idol trainee and the scion of a wealthy chaebol family. He possesses an undeniable charisma, described as having blonde hair and striking amber eyes, often paired with pierced ears that further accentuate his trendy image. Within the fictional world of "Operation: True Love," he is the most talked-about and admired student, often having gifts and snacks left for him by adoring female students, and even garnering thousands of social media followers despite infrequent posting. Entertainment agencies relentlessly pursue him for casting, with some even attempting to scout him dozens of times, only to be met with his consistent refusal, often citing reasons like being tone-deaf, bald, or having camera phobia. This public persona of effortless perfection, however, is merely a meticulously crafted illusion. Behind the dazzling smile and popular facade lies a stark and challenging reality. The true Baek Dohwa is a diligent, hardworking student grappling with significant financial hardship and a deeply troubled family life. Contrary to the widespread rumors of wealth, he lives alone in a modest studio apartment and juggles not one, but three demanding part-time jobs to make ends meet. He works tirelessly at a meat restaurant (where he primarily washes dishes to avoid being recognized by customers), a laundromat, and a convenience store, even taking on mascot work during holidays. This relentless grind is a far cry from the glamorous life he's rumored to lead, showcasing a profound sense of responsibility and resilience in the face of adversity. His past is marred by a "deadbeat and abusive father," a painful secret that underscores his desperate need for self-reliance and his aversion to revealing his true circumstances. In middle school, his poverty was exposed, leading to betrayal by friends. This experience left him wary of trust, contributing to his initial cold demeanor towards new acquaintances and his reluctance to deny rumors about his supposed wealth or idol trainee status, as it helps him maintain a protective distance. He carries the weight of high expectations, yet never truly felt accepted or seen by anyone before meeting Su-ae. Baek Dohwa's personality is a fascinating blend of contrasts. He's often described as nonchalant, blunt, and casual, with a playful, teasing side reserved for those he likes. He can appear ignorant or struggle to take hints, yet possesses a high IQ that makes him an engaging conversationalist. Initially cold, his demeanor softens significantly as he grows closer to people, particularly with the webtoon's protagonist, Shim Su-ae. When he falls in love, his vulnerable side emerges, transforming him into a remarkably caring, witty, mischievous, and gentle individual. Psychologically, Baek Dohwa is often analyzed using personality frameworks. He is most commonly typed as an ENTP (Extraverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Perceiving) on the MBTI. This aligns with his quick wit, intellectual curiosity, and tendency to challenge norms. ENTPs are known for their "creative chaos," rapid speech, and prowess in debate. He is also frequently identified as a 6w5 (The Loyalist, The Skeptic) in the Enneagram system. This Enneagram type suggests he is loyal, responsible, and hardworking, but also prone to anxiety and a constant search for security and support. His basic fear is being without support or guidance, while his core desire is to achieve inner security. This deep-seated need for security, combined with his external struggles, makes his journey particularly poignant. He constantly seeks ways to make others feel less alone and more valued, revealing a deep capacity for empathy despite his tough exterior. Baek Dohwa plays a pivotal role in "Operation: True Love," serving as one of the primary love interests for Shim Su-ae. Their relationship forms one of the central pillars of the narrative, often intertwined with a complex love triangle involving another popular character, Go Eunhyuk. What makes Baek Dohwa's connection with Su-ae particularly compelling is its organic development. They gradually become comfortable enough to share deep secrets, fostering a sense of peace and understanding that often surpasses the more anxious dynamic Su-ae experiences with Eunhyuk. Fans often point to this natural ease as a key reason why Baek Dohwa is considered a strong candidate for Su-ae's "endgame" partner. His character arc is defined by his struggle to reconcile his hidden burdens with his public image, and how his interactions with Su-ae gradually allow him to drop his guard. His journey is one of learning to trust and be vulnerable, overcoming the psychological scars left by his past betrayals. The narrative frequently highlights his genuine concern for Su-ae, showcasing his caring and protective instincts when he is with her. The debate over whether Baek Dohwa will be the "endgame" partner for Su-ae is one of the most fervent discussions among fans of "Operation: True Love." Many passionately believe that he is the destined male lead, citing the natural chemistry and deep understanding between him and Su-ae. Fan theories often revolve around "red string fate" or unexpected encounters that continually bring them together, even after periods of separation. The webtoon's author has been noted for foreshadowing and hints that suggest a positive outcome for Baek Dohwa's storyline. This dedicated fanbase actively supports his character, often sharing edits and analyses highlighting his charm, resilience, and growth. The webtoon itself has garnered significant attention and accolades, including mentions in "Peaches Awards" for "Best Couple" (presumably referring to a pairing within the series) and winning "Romance" categories in "Be Awards 2021" and "Mooflower Awards 2021". This widespread recognition speaks to the compelling nature of its characters and plotlines, with Baek Dohwa being a central figure in its success. As of 2025, "Operation: True Love" has been on an indefinite hiatus due to the author and artist's health, a piece of news that saddened its devoted readership. However, there have been whispers and discussions about a potential comeback for "Operation True Love" in 2025, offering a glimmer of hope for fans eagerly awaiting the continuation of Baek Dohwa's story and the resolution of the series' central romantic arcs. This anticipation underscores the deep emotional investment readers have in the characters and their fates.
