The Korean Drama Voted “Best” by Top PDs—Peaked at 9.6% Ratings

What do Korea’s top producers consider the best K-drama? According to the Korean Producers Association, the honor goes to 'Doubt', a gripping psychological thriller that stood out during the second half of 2024.

On April 2, the Korean Producers Association announced the winners of the 37th Korean PD Awards. The awards recognize producers and broadcasting professionals who have contributed to freedom of the press and cultural advancement through television. Over 130 active PDs directly participate in selecting the winners through a rigorous two-stage judging process.

'Doubt' Wins Best TV Drama

Doubt was awarded Best Drama in the TV category, praised for its direction, writing, and performances. The 10-part series aired from October 11 to November 15, 2024, following 'Snow White Must Die: Black Out'. The show ended on a high, recording a nationwide rating peak of 9.6% (Nielsen Korea).

The drama quickly gained a reputation for its tight narrative, cinematic quality, and emotional depth. Even after its finale, Doubt continued to trend across online communities and streaming platforms, being widely hailed as a “well-made thriller.”

The Perfect Match of Writer, Director, and Cast

One of the key reasons for Doubt's success was the flawless synergy between its writer, director, and cast. Han Suk-kyu delivered a masterful performance, bringing emotional depth and nuance to his character. Director Song Yeon-hwa was lauded for her emotionally charged, stylish direction that heightened the show’s tension—turning even ordinary spaces like dining tables and doorways into powerful storytelling tools.

The drama also broke genre expectations by exploring an unusual “father-daughter thriller” format. It dissected the psychological tension that arises when suspicion creeps into familial relationships, blending Korean emotional sensibilities with tightly crafted thriller elements.

A Hit Across Broadcast and Streaming Platforms

Doubt didn’t just perform well on traditional broadcast TV—it also ranked high on OTT platforms like Netflix and Wavve, gaining traction with both domestic and international viewers. Its ability to attract both older TV audiences and younger, digital-first viewers speaks to the drama’s wide appeal and strong storytelling.

While some critics noted a slightly slower pace in the middle episodes (particularly Episodes 5–7), the show was ultimately praised for maintaining emotional coherence and delivering a satisfying conclusion.

Thanks to these accomplishments, Doubt has been officially named Best TV Drama at the 37th Korean PD Awards.

When to Watch the Ceremony

The award ceremony will be held on April 9 at 3 p.m. KST at the KBS Open Hall in Yeouido, Seoul. A recorded broadcast will air on KBS1 on April 15 at 2:30 p.m. KST.