SBS drama Love Scout (Korean title: 나의 완벽한 비서) is captivating audiences worldwide, achieving a remarkable feat of topping viewership charts in 123 countries, including the United States, Brazil, the United Kingdom, France, the UAE, and India.
According to global streaming platform Rakuten Viki, the romantic drama, starring Han Ji-min and Lee Jun-hyuk, reached this milestone just two weeks into its broadcast. The show boasts an impressive 9.8 rating on the platform, with international viewers praising it as a quintessential Korean romance drama.
The stellar performances and chemistry of lead actors Han Ji-min and Lee Jun-hyuk have garnered widespread acclaim. Viewers are particularly impressed by the way the series weaves a touching narrative that goes beyond romance, offering a realistic portrayal of workplace dynamics and human relationships in modern society.
A Rising Phenomenon
Domestically, Love Scout has seen a steady rise in ratings since its premiere on January 3. According to Nielsen Korea, the first episode recorded a viewership rating of 5.2%, which climbed to 6.5% by the second episode. By the third and fourth episodes, the ratings had skyrocketed to 10.5% and 11.3%, respectively. This upward trajectory suggests the drama’s popularity will only continue to grow.
The drama tells the story of Kang Ji-yoon (Han Ji-min), a dedicated CEO of a headhunting firm, and Yoo Eun-ho (Lee Jun-hyuk), her meticulous male secretary. The narrative combines heartfelt romance with nuanced explorations of personal and professional conflicts, delivering an emotional depth that resonates with both local and global audiences.
Showcasing Korea's Scenic Beauty
The production has also spotlighted the scenic beauty of Pohang, with iconic locations like Yeongildae Coastal Park, Igari Anchor Observatory, and Songrim Theme Street serving as backdrops for pivotal scenes. Pohang's unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage adds a layer of charm to the drama, further enhancing its appeal.
The city of Pohang has expressed high hopes that the drama's growing popularity will boost local tourism, as fans seek to visit these picturesque filming locations.
Global Impact of K-Romance
The global success of Love Scout underscores the enduring power of Korean romance dramas. While Korean content continues to thrive across various genres, romance remains a defining and consistently successful element. With its compelling story and international appeal, Love Scout is yet another example of K-romance capturing the hearts of viewers worldwide.