Just when you’re worried that your favorite hallyu wave changes due to the recent political turmoil in South Korea, MBC Kdrama “When the Phone Rings” swoops in and proves you otherwise with its worldwide popularity. The skyrocketing of “When the Phone Rings” Kdrama is not only limited to Korean networks but to OTT platforms like Netflix and Wavve as well. Check out how this Kdrama masterpiece managed to elevate the hallyu wave’s global domination higher in recent reports below.
MBC Kdrama “When the Phone Rings” Popularity Remains Stable Despite Challenges
After having to face a forced hiatus due to the recent political turmoil in South Korea, MBC Kdrama “When the Phone Rings” proves its stable domination and global popularity. This skyrocketing MBC series successfully captivated audiences with its intriguing mix of romance and thriller.
On December 15, Nielsen Korea reported that episode 6 of “When the Phone Rings” Kdrama had successfully achieved a nationwide viewership rating of 6.9%. It was a 1-percent rise following the previous episode, which showed a 5.9% rating. This has marked a new record for the series and showcases its growing popularity.
What makes it even more impressive is that the popularity of “When the Phone Rings” Kdrama remains strong even after facing unexpected challenges. Previously, this series had to cancel its broadcasting due to emergency news coverage following President Yoon Suk Yeol’s martial law declaration.
Not only that, but this Kdrama also had to navigate controversy over a misrepresentation of sign language. Yet, despite these setbacks, “When the Phone Rings” has stayed on top, thanks to its suspenseful storytelling and emotional depth.
Dominating Korean TV and Global OTT Platforms, Including Netflix
Additionally, even after facing such setbacks, MBC Kdrama “When the Phone Rings” has proved its popularity not just in South Korea, but also in global OTT platforms, including Netflix.
On December 15, Flixpatrol reported that “When the Phone Rings” successfully ranked at #3 in the global Netflix Top 10 TV Shows category. And the series managed to reach this success only two weeks after its release, and it even reached the #1 spot in 33 countries.
And you must know that the impact doesn’t just stop there. The original web novel also saw a fivefold increase in views and a 14.6 times surge in revenue, taking the top spot on KakaoPage’s rankings.
But really, what is the secret to the show’s success?
Korean drama community has always been divided into two major fan demographics: those who adore heart-fluttering romance—whether it’s classic, melo, or comedy—and those who are fond of the suspenseful, thrilling plot twists in Korean dramas.
And you should really understand that MBC Kdrama “When the Phone Rings” managed to blend these two genres in the most flawless approach. Blending thrilling moments with heartfelt romance, topped with brilliant actors Yoo Yeon Seok and Chae Soo Bin with their melting chemistry, this Kdrama struck a chord with viewers everywhere.
Marking the Revival of Korean Melodrama
Finally, just when you think Korean melodrama is old school and outdated, “When the Phone Rings” proves there’s still a strong appetite for the genre. Amid the challenges and more concerns over the declining popularity of this genre, this MBC series swoops in and proves that Korean melodramas are far from dead.
Also, the global popularity of “When the Phone Rings” may even be staging a grand comeback for Korean melodramas. Its success gives hope for a melodrama revival, showing that the genre still has plenty of life left and continues to connect with viewers in a big way.
Don’t you think so too? Please share your thoughts in the comments. Meanwhile, let’s again witness the scorching chemistry between Yoo Yeon Seok and Chae Soo Bin in the series.
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Source: FlixPatrol, TopStarNews
