KBS Joy’s latest drama, 'Sorry Not Sorry', is facing tough challenges with low viewership ratings despite featuring prominent actors like Jun So-min and Choi Daniel. Since its premiere on December 5, the drama has consistently recorded ratings below 1%, starting at 0.3% in the first episode and maintaining 0.4% in subsequent episodes.
Marking KBS N’s first drama release in a decade, 'Sorry Not Sorry' is directed by Min Ji-young with a script penned by Jo Yoo-jin and Choi Ryong. The story revolves around a woman who becomes a multi-job hustler after a sudden breakup and the need to pay off her honeymoon home’s mortgage, delivering a relatable tale of survival. Director Min described the drama as a “comedy, family, and healing growth story rolled into one” and highlighted its focus on life in a new city and the struggles of women in their 30s.
Jun So-min, in her first project since departing SBS’s 'Running Man', plays Ji-song, a divorcee pretending to be a married woman. She explained her motivation for taking the role, saying, “I was looking for a bright and refreshing project, and thankfully, the script for 'Sorry Not Sorry' came my way.” Choi Daniel stars as Cha Hyun-woo, a divorce lawyer, while Kim Moo-joon plays Kim Ian, a cheerful café owner, adding unique charm to the romantic storyline. Supporting roles include Gong Min-jung as Choi Ha-na, a miracle-morning advocate and working mom, and Jang Hee-ryung as Ahn Chan-yang, the youngest daughter of a wealthy family, bringing comedic elements to the plot.
Gong Min-jung made headlines by announcing her pregnancy at the drama’s press conference. In response, the production team adjusted her character to accommodate her pregnancy, showing thoughtful consideration. When asked about viewership expectations, Jun So-min said, “High ratings would be great, but for me, hearing ‘I’m loving 'Sorry Not Sorry'’ five out of ten times at cafés or restaurants would mean the drama is a success. By December, I hope people will call me Ji-song instead of ‘Running Man’s Jun So-min.’”
The chemistry between the cast was another highlight. Jun So-min praised Choi Daniel as a “romantic-comedy expert” and added, “He has a remarkable talent for bringing out the romance in his co-stars.” Choi Daniel responded warmly, saying, “It’s my first time working with So-min, and I was amazed. She’s the star of our drama, and I want to ensure she blossoms fully.”
While its ratings remain low, 'Sorry Not Sorry' is gaining recognition for its mix of relatable urban survival stories and sweet romance, coupled with strong performances from the cast. The drama airs every Thursday at 9 p.m. on KBS Joy.