For the First Time Since “The Glory”… “When Life Gives You Tangerines” Shatters Netflix Records in an Instant
Netflix has achieved a significant milestone in South Korea, recording 14.2 million monthly active users (MAU) in February 2025. This surge is largely attributed to the success of the original series “When Life Gives You Tangerines.”
The drama, set in 1950s Jeju, chronicles the life of Oh Ae-soon (IU), a rebellious girl aspiring to be a poet, and her relationship with the devoted Yang Gwan-sik (Park Bo-gum). Its authentic portrayal of Jeju’s culture and heartfelt storytelling have resonated with audiences both domestically and internationally.
According to Good Data Corp., the series topped the TV-OTT drama buzz category, with IU leading the cast buzz rankings. Within three days of its release, it garnered 3.6 million views, securing fourth place in Netflix’s Global TOP 10 (Non-English) series ranking and entering the TOP 10 lists in 24 countries, including Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Peru, and Bolivia.
The success of “When Life Gives You Tangerines” underscores the growing global appetite for Korean content. In response, Netflix announced a $2.5 billion investment in South Korean productions over the next four years, aiming to further expand its Korean series, films, and unscripted shows.
This strategic focus on Korean content not only enhances Netflix’s global library but also solidifies South Korea’s position as a cultural powerhouse in the entertainment industry.
