Record-Breaking K-Drama Dominating Charts, Instantly Hailed as a Masterpiece

※ Disclaimer: This article contains spoiler alerts.

Netflix’s latest series, released on March 7, has taken the entertainment world by storm, topping the TV-OTT drama buzz rankings in just four days.

According to Good Data Corporation, a firm specializing in K-content analytics, Netflix’s original drama When Life Gives You Tangerines has ranked No. 1 in TV-OTT drama buzz. Additionally, lead actress IU claimed the top spot in the TV-OTT drama actor buzz rankings.

Set in Jeju, When Life Gives You Tangerines follows the adventurous life of rebellious “fiery potato” Ae-soon (played by IU) and the ever-loyal “iron-hearted” Gwan-sik (played by Park Bo-gum), spanning six decades from 1960s Jeju to 2025 Seoul. Veteran actors Moon So-ri and Park Hae-jun portray the older versions of Ae-soon and Gwan-sik, adding depth to the story’s emotional journey.

The series was penned by renowned screenwriter Im Sang-chun, known for Fight for My Way and When the Camellia Blooms, and directed by Kim Won-seok, the creative mind behind Misaeng, Signal, and My Mister.

Immediately after its release, the drama soared to the No. 1 spot on Netflix Korea’s TOP 10 series chart, drawing attention both domestically and internationally. The cast’s immersive performances, seamlessly blending into their roles, have struck an emotional chord with viewers.

Fans have been raving about the drama, with reactions such as:

“The dialogue pierced my heart.”

“Even the child actors are phenomenal.”

“So many memorable lines in just one episode.”

“The acting in this drama is just on another level.”

“Just seeing Ae-soon’s mother makes me tear up.”

“Im Sang-chun’s writing always hits differently.”

“From the first episode, I knew this was a masterpiece.”

“It feels like watching an incredible indie film.”

“Everyone needs to watch this drama. It’s truly amazing.”

Episodes 1–4 delve into the story of Ae-soon’s mother, Jeon Gwang-rye (played by Yum Hye-ran), a resilient woman who became a haenyeo (female diver) in Jeju after years of traveling as a merchant. Burdened by her family’s debts and two failed marriages—one with a sick husband and another with an irresponsible drifter—Gwang-rye carries the weight of survival. To her, Ae-soon is both a precious daughter and a relentless challenge, always pushing to share the burdens of life. The raw, determined portrayal of a mother fighting to protect her child has left audiences deeply moved.

The drama also captivates viewers with the steadfast love story between the strong-willed Ae-soon and the ever-patient Gwan-sik, who stands by her side for ten years. After losing her mother and finding herself homeless, Ae-soon is at her lowest—until Gwan-sik becomes her unwavering rock. Whether sneaking away to Busan with her in the dead of night or swimming through stormy seas just to return to her, Gwan-sik proves to be the dependable "steel axe" in her life.

Part 2 (Episodes 5–8), set to premiere on the 14th, will showcase Ae-soon as a strong mother and Gwan-sik as a devoted father willing to do anything for his children.

The 16-episode drama will be released over four weeks, with four episodes dropping each week.

▼ Watch the Part 2 Trailer