In a landmark television event, the series finale of “Queen of Tears” has officially become the highest-rated episode in the history of the South Korean network tvN, surpassing the record previously held by the beloved drama “Crash Landing on You.” The final episode, which aired on April 28, 2024, captivated a whopping 24.850% of viewers according to Nielsen Korea, outdoing the 21.683% record set by its predecessor in February 2020.
A Tale of Love Rediscovered
“Queen of Tears” has woven a narrative that resonates deeply with its audience, depicting the complex relationship between a chaebol heiress, Hong Hae-in, played by Kim Ji-won, and a farmer’s son, Baek Hyun-woo, portrayed by Kim Soo-hyun. The drama unfolds as the couple, on the brink of divorce after three years of marriage, faces an unexpected twist: Hae-in’s terminal illness, which rekindles their love in a poignant second chance at happiness.
This narrative starkly contrasts with “Crash Landing on You,” which tells the romantic tale of a South Korean fashion mogul, played by Son Ye-jin, who accidentally paraglides into North Korea and falls for a soldier, played by Hyun Bin. The unique premise of cross-border love captured the hearts of viewers globally, making the success of “Queen of Tears” all the more significant as it managed to surpass such a well-received predecessor.
Celebratory Echoes and Global Popularity
Following the ratings announcement, tvN shared their joy on X (formerly Twitter) along with exclusive behind-the-scenes photos of the cast, expressing congratulations in Korean. The show has not only topped charts in Korea but has also become a favorite in international markets, including the Philippines, where it leads as the top TV show.
Behind the Scenes: Building Chemistry and Overcoming Nerves
The chemistry between the lead actors, Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Ji-won, has been a significant talking point. Weeks before the finale, at a press conference, Ji-won revealed her initial nervousness about working with Soo-hyun, whom she had long admired. However, as their off-screen relationship developed, so did their on-screen rapport, evolving into a natural and compelling dynamic that undoubtedly contributed to the show’s success.
Kim Soo-hyun echoed these sentiments, noting the growth of their interaction as both actors became more comfortable with one another, which in turn enhanced their performance and the authenticity of their characters’ love story.
A Milestone for tvN and Korean Drama
This ratings milestone is a testament to the evolving landscape of Korean dramas, where new stories and talents continue to emerge, pushing the boundaries of traditional K-drama narratives and engaging a diverse, global audience. “Queen of Tears” not only marks a significant achievement for its network and actors but also signifies the vibrant and dynamic nature of Korean entertainment.
“Queen of Tears” has set a new standard, leaving an indelible mark on the history of tvN and the hearts of its viewers worldwide.