Korean Drama ratings: A Tale of Diverging Tastes Between South Korea and Indonesia
Jakarta – The world of Korean dramas, or K-dramas, continues to captivate audiences globally, but not all titles resonate equally across borders. Recent viewership data reveals a captivating divergence in preferences between South Korean domestic audiences and international fans,particularly in Indonesia.
Currently, two titles are dominating the Indonesian streaming scene: When the Stars Gossip (tvN) and Love Scout (SBS). Both are available on Netflix and have become favorites among Indonesian viewers.However, their reception in south Korea tells a different story.
When the Stars Gossip, starring Gong Hyo Jin and Lee Min Ho, has struggled to gain traction in its home country.According to Nielsen ratings, only 1.8 percent of South Korean viewers tuned in to watch this drama. In contrast, Love Scout has fared much better domestically, with its latest episode achieving an impressive 10.9 percent rating on SBS.
But Love Scout isn’t the only K-drama capturing the attention of South Korean audiences. The Tale of Lady Ok, featuring Lim Ji Yeon, has also garnered important viewership, reaching 10.2 percent ahead of its final episode. simultaneously occurring, Iron Family, airing on KBS, has emerged as the weekend’s most-watched drama, boasting a staggering 18.3 percent rating as it neared its conclusion.
On the other end of the spectrum, Motel California, which recently premiered on MBC, has struggled to keep pace, securing only 3.4 percent viewership midway through its season. This stark contrast in ratings highlights the differing tastes between South Korean and international audiences.
Key Takeaways:
Table of Contents
| Drama Title | Network | South Korea Rating | International Popularity |
|————————–|————-|————————|——————————|
| When the Stars Gossip | tvN | 1.8% | High (Indonesia) |
| Love Scout | SBS | 10.9% | High (Indonesia) |
| The Tale of Lady Ok | – | 10.2% | Moderate |
| Iron Family | KBS | 18.3% | Moderate |
| Motel California | MBC | 3.4% | Low |
The disparity in viewership underscores the unique cultural preferences that shape K-drama consumption. While Indonesian audiences are drawn to romantic and star-studded titles like when the Stars Gossip and Love Scout, South korean viewers favor family-centric and historical dramas such as Iron Family and the Tale of Lady Ok.
This divergence isn’t just about entertainment—it reflects broader cultural influences. As highlighted in a 2022 Jakpat survey, K-dramas have significantly impacted Indonesian tastes in music, fashion, and even food. Meanwhile, South Korean audiences remain loyal to narratives that resonate with their local traditions and values.
So, which drama are you following? Whether you’re drawn to the romantic allure of When the Stars Gossip or the gripping family dynamics of Iron Family, there’s no denying the global appeal of K-dramas. Share your thoughts and join the conversation about your favorite shows!
(aay/dar)
Korean Drama Ratings: Exploring Diverging Tastes Between South Korea and Indonesia
Korean dramas, or K-dramas, have taken the world by storm, but recent viewership data reveals fascinating differences in preferences between South Korean domestic audiences and international fans, particularly in Indonesia.To delve deeper into this phenomenon, we sat down with Dr. Hana Kim, a cultural anthropologist and expert in East Asian media, to unpack the cultural nuances behind these diverging tastes.
The Split Preferences: Romantic vs. Family-Centric Dramas
Editor: Dr. Kim, the article highlights how Indonesian audiences gravitate toward romantic and star-studded titles like When the Stars Gossip, while South Korean viewers prefer family-centric and past dramas like Iron Family. What cultural factors contribute to this split?
Dr. Kim: The divergence in preferences is deeply rooted in cultural values. Indonesian audiences, particularly younger viewers, are drawn to the escapism and glamour of romantic dramas. These stories often feature themes of love, ambition, and personal fulfillment, which resonate with a demographic that is increasingly exposed to global media trends. Conversely, South Korean audiences have a strong affinity for narratives that reflect their societal values, such as family loyalty and historical pride. Shows like Iron Family and The Tale of Lady Ok tap into these themes, making them more relatable for domestic viewers.
The role of Cultural Influence in K-Drama Consumption
Editor: The article mentions how K-dramas have influenced Indonesian tastes in music,fashion,and even food,while South Korean audiences remain loyal to local traditions.Can you elaborate on how these cultural influences shape viewership?
Dr. Kim: Absolutely. In Indonesia, K-dramas are more than just entertainment—they are a gateway to Korean culture. The popularity of shows like Love Scout has sparked interest in Korean fashion trends, K-pop music, and even cuisine. This phenomenon is part of the broader Hallyu wave, which has made korean culture a global phenomenon. In contrast, South Korean viewers often seek dramas that reinforce their cultural identity. Family-centric and historical narratives serve as a form of cultural preservation,reminding audiences of their heritage and shared values.
Why Some Dramas Succeed Domestically but Fail Internationally
Editor: Shows like Motel California have struggled domestically, while others like When the Stars Gossip perform well internationally but not in South Korea. What do you think explains this disparity?
Dr. Kim: This is a complex issue. Domestically, factors like production quality, timing, and competition can significantly impact a drama’s success. Such as, Motel California may have struggled due to its slot in the programming schedule or the strength of competing shows. Internationally,though,success frequently enough hinges on themes and casting. Star power, like the presence of actors like Gong Hyo Jin and Lee Min Ho in When the Stars Gossip, can attract global fans, even if the drama doesn’t resonate with South Korean viewers. Additionally, international audiences often look for universal themes like love and ambition, which transcend cultural boundaries.
The Global Appeal of K-Dramas
Editor: Despite these diverging tastes, K-dramas continue to have a global appeal. What do you think makes them so universally captivating?
Dr. Kim: K-dramas have a unique storytelling style that blends emotional depth with high production values. Whether it’s a romantic drama like Love Scout or a family saga like Iron Family, these shows often explore universal themes that resonate across cultures. Additionally, the global streaming platforms have made K-dramas more accessible than ever, allowing viewers from different parts of the world to connect with these stories.The diversity within the genre—from historical epics to modern rom-coms—ensures that there’s something for everyone.
Conclusion
Our conversation with Dr. Hana Kim sheds light on the fascinating cultural dynamics behind the diverging tastes in K-drama viewership. While Indonesian fans are captivated by the allure of romantic and star-studded dramas, South korean audiences remain loyal to narratives that reflect their cultural heritage. This divergence highlights the rich diversity of the K-drama genre and its ability to appeal to a wide range of viewers across the globe. Whether you’re a fan of when the Stars Gossip or Iron Family, there’s no denying the universal charm of Korean dramas.
