The Netflix original series 'When Life Gives You Tangerines,' made with a budget of 60 billion KRW (~41.4 million USD), has become a sensation worldwide, captivating audiences in 24 countries just three days after its debut.
Based on Netflix’s latest viewership rankings from March 12, the drama stars IU and Park Bo Gum, racking up 3.6 million views (equivalent to 13.9 million watch hours) within the initial three days (March 3-9). This achievement secured the drama's spot as the 4th most-watched non-English TV show globally. It trailed behind 'Medusa' (6.8 million views, 51 million hours), 'Just One Look' (4.5 million views, 20.1 million hours), and 'Cassandra' (3.7 million views, 18.4 million hours).
'When Life Gives You Tangerines' has impressively made it to the TOP 10 lists across various nations, including South Korea, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Peru, and Bolivia, reaffirming the widespread appeal of K-dramas globally.
Set against the backdrop of Jeju Island, the series chronicles the adventurous tale of the "rebellious troublemaker" Ae Soon (portrayed by IU) and the "devoted fool" Gwan Shik (played by Park Bo Gum) throughout the changing seasons. The presence of seasoned actors Moon So Ri and Park Hae Joon as the elder versions of Ae Soon and Gwan Shik, alongside a stellar supporting cast including Yum Hye Ran, Kim Yong Rim, and Oh Jung Se, adds depth to the narrative.
Noteworthy talent fuels the production team as well. Screenwriter Im Sang Choon, renowned for creations like 'When the Camellia Blooms' (2019) and 'Fight for My Way' (2017), penned the script, while director Kim Won Seok, recognized for works like 'My Mister' (2018) and 'Signal' (2016), spearheaded the direction. This collaboration, often dubbed a “golden combination,” is deemed instrumental in the drama's acclaim.
International media outlets have showered accolades on the series. Forbes commended it for the actors' seamless portrayal of aging characters over time and praised its depiction of enduring love amid the captivating Jeju Island scenery. The South China Morning Post lauded its elegant storytelling and immersive performances.
A flurry of behind-the-scenes and unreleased visuals have heightened excitement surrounding the show. Images of IU and Park Bo Gum in a picturesque canola field and sharing a tender moment have resonated with fans. Other pictures capture the actors sharing laughs, engaging in emotional scenes, and displaying off-screen chemistry, bringing Ae Soon and Gwan Shik's charm to life.
Additional stills show IU closely monitoring scenes and Park Bo Gum embodying emotional depth, emphasizing their commitment to their roles. Meanwhile, images of Moon So Ri and Park Hae Joon as the elder counterparts showcase the enduring bond between the characters.
The production team's shared glimpses of director Kim Won Seok's passionate guidance on set, the camaraderie among cast members, and the vibrant filming atmosphere provide a peek into the drama's creation process.
Under the title "폭싹 속았수다 (Pok Ssak Sok Ah Su Da)"—a phrase in Jeju dialect meaning “You’ve worked so hard”—the series encapsulates life's essence beyond mere romance, portraying seasons, challenges, and determination, resonating with a global audience.
The drama, comprising 16 episodes, unveils four episodes each Friday. The upcoming release of the second part (episodes 5-8) on March 14 at 5 PM KST has raised anticipation for the unfolding journey of Ae Soon and Gwan Shik, leaving viewers around the world eagerly awaiting the next chapter.