The K-drama industry is buzzing with excitement as Queen of Tears has made history by becoming tvN’s highest-rated show ever, surpassing fan-favorites like Goblin and Crash Landing on You. This unexpected success has set a high bar for other upcoming shows, including tvN’s highly anticipated The Midnight Romance in Hagwon, starring Wi Ha Joon.
Queen of Tears, which concluded its run in April, still holds the number 4 spot in the Netflix Top 10 Non-English category, showcasing its enduring popularity among international audiences. Social media platforms are still abuzz with discussions about the electrifying chemistry between lead actors Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Ji Won, leaving fans eager for more riveting K-dramas.
In contrast, the domestic ratings for new shows like The Atypical Family, featuring Jang Ki Yong, have struggled to compete with the phenomenon that is Queen of Tears. While the series has shown improvement in recent episodes, its ratings have yet to break the 5 percent mark in the domestic market. However, it has found success on Netflix, climbing to the 6th position in the non-English category.
tvN’s Midnight Romance in Hagwon has also faced challenges following the monumental success of Queen of Tears. The show, which explores a controversial teacher-student relationship, has received mixed reactions from viewers. Despite the star power of Wi Ha Joon and Jung Ryeo Won, some fans have expressed disappointment in the lack of chemistry between the leads and criticized the show for not offering anything new.
As the K-drama landscape continues to evolve, it is clear that captivating storytelling and compelling characters are essential for a show to stand out among the crowd. With viewers’ expectations at an all-time high, only time will tell if upcoming dramas can match the success of Queen of Tears and capture the hearts of audiences worldwide.
