‘Queen of Tears’ overtakes ‘Goblin’, soars as 2nd highest-rated K-drama in TVN history after ‘Reply 1988’
SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA: The K-drama landscape is witnessing a changing of the guard as the ongoing drama 'Queen of Tears', starring Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Ji-won, has achieved a remarkable feat by surpassing the highly-acclaimed 'Goblin' to become the second-highest-rated drama in tvN's history.
Previously held by the 2016 fantasy romance 'Goblin', the second-place spot now belongs to 'Queen of Tears'. The romantic comedy recently crossed the coveted 20% average ratings mark in South Korea, according to Nielsen Korea, solidifying its position among the most popular Korean dramas on cable television.
This news comes after 'Queen of Tears' dethroned another beloved series, 'Reply 1988', just a week prior. The slice-of-life drama, renowned for its heartwarming portrayal of childhood friendships and family bonds, now sits comfortably at the fourth position.
'Queen of Tears' climbs the ratings ladder
The ongoing success of 'Queen of Tears' can be attributed to several factors. The power duo of Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Ji-won has captivated audiences with their undeniable chemistry.
The story itself, focusing on a married couple navigating the complexities of love, divorce, and rediscovering their connection, resonates with viewers seeking a relatable yet heartwarming narrative.
However, the road ahead for 'Queen of Tears' is not without challenges. The top spot on tvN's all-time rating chart is currently held by 'Crash Landing on You', the 2019 rom-com starring Hyun Bin and Son Ye-jin, which garnered a staggering 21.7% ratings in its finale.
Regardless of the outcome, 'Queen of Tears' has already established itself as a force to be reckoned with, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts of K-drama fans worldwide.
Top 5 tvN dramas with highest ratings
TvN reigns supreme in Korean dramas with captivating stories and star-studded casts. Here's a look at their five of the highest-rated shows as of April 2024:
'Crash Landing On You' (2019-2020): A North Korean soldier and a South Korean heiress spark a record-breaking romance with 21.7% ratings.
'Queen of Tears' (2024 - Ongoing): Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Ji-won's drama soars to 20.7% ratings, captivating viewers with its story and acting performances.
'Goblin' (2016-2017): The fantasy romance 'Goblin' starring Gong Yoo was a global phenomenon, holding the top rating spot with 20.5% ratings until 'Crash Landing On You' emerged.
'Reply 1988' (2015-2016): The nostalgic slice-of-life drama 'Reply 1988' remains a beloved classic with 18.8% ratings.
'Mr. Sunshine' (2018): Lee Byung-hun and Kim Tae-ri's historical drama captivated audiences with a grand production, garnering 18.1% ratings as a result.
What makes 'Queen of Tears' different from other K-dramas?
'Queen of Tears' ignites the screen with the electrifying chemistry between Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Ji-won.
They portray Hong Hae-in, a captivating heiress, and Baek Hyun-woo, a grounded lawyer, whose passionate love collides with their contrasting worlds. Despite a shaky marriage, their undeniable spark reignites when Hae-in faces a life-altering illness.
Witness the phenomenal Soo-hyun deliver a nuanced performance, showcasing both vulnerability and determination. Ji-won, meanwhile, shines as the strong-willed Hae-in, grappling with illness while navigating the complexities of love.
Together, they create an unforgettable duo, promising a rollercoaster of emotions as they fight for their love and each other.
How to stream 'Queen of Tears'?
'Queen of Tears' Episode 13 arrives this weekend. Catch the drama on Saturday, April 20 at 9:20 pm Korean Standard Time (KST).
The engrossing K-drama is available for streaming on Netflix. The membership for the same starts from as low as $6.99/month (standard plan with ads).
The standard plan without ads is priced at $15.49/month, while the premium plan costs $22.99/month.
'Queen of Tears' trailer