KBS2TV’s weekend drama “For Engle Brothers” is on a steady rise, drawing in weekend viewers with an impressive 19% rating. Since its premiere on February 1, the drama has dominated the weekend slot and is now approaching the 20% mark, holding the highest viewership among all currently airing dramas.
Amidst its soaring popularity, lead actor Ahn Jae-wook made headlines with a surprising viewership pledge. Attending KBS’s 52nd anniversary ceremony on March 4, he expressed confidence in the drama’s continued success. “Judging by the passion of the staff and cast, I believe reaching a 30% viewership rating is entirely possible,” he stated. “If we surpass 30%, I will dance on set as a celebration.” He further assured, “We will do our best to deliver the passion and dedication of the KBS drama team to our viewers, so please continue to support and watch us.”
The drama’s success lies in its strong emotional appeal, centered around the universal theme of family. It follows Ma Gwang-sook (Uhm Ji-won), who loses her husband just ten days after marriage and embarks on a journey to rebuild his family’s traditional brewery alongside his four younger brothers. Rather than focusing on a conventional blood-related family, the drama explores how unrelated individuals come together to form a true familial bond, resonating deeply with audiences. The unique chemistry between the bold yet warmhearted sister-in-law and her distinctly different brothers-in-law brings both laughter and heartfelt moments. The setting, Doksuri Brewery, specializing in traditional makgeolli (Korean rice wine), also plays a crucial role, aligning with the recent resurgence of interest in traditional alcoholic beverages.
The camaraderie among the brewery brothers further fuels the drama’s success. Following the passing of the eldest brother, Oh Jang-soo (Lee Pil-mo), the second brother, Oh Chun-soo (Choi Dae-chul), takes on the responsibility of leading the family, often clashing yet ultimately reconciling with his younger brother, Oh Heung-soo (Kim Dong-wan). Heung-soo’s free-spirited and unpredictable nature adds comic relief, while his affectionate use of “Noona” when addressing Gwang-sook lightens the drama’s tone. Meanwhile, the composed and charismatic university professor Oh Beom-soo (Yoon Park) hides a deep longing for his late eldest brother, and the youngest, Oh Kang-soo (Lee Seok-ki), is a dependable yet quietly grieving figure set to return to the brewery following his military discharge.
The drama’s success is also driven by stellar performances from its seasoned cast. Uhm Ji-won masterfully portrays Ma Gwang-sook, balancing her cheerful and straightforward nature with the grief of losing her husband and the responsibility of looking after his brothers. With a cast featuring Ahn Jae-wook, Lee Pil-mo, Choi Dae-chul, Kim Dong-wan, and Yoon Park, alongside rising stars, the series boasts a perfect synergy that enhances audience engagement.
Key upcoming plot points include Gwang-sook’s ambitious brewery revival project and the evolving relationships among the brothers. Additionally, viewers are intrigued by the unfolding dynamic between Gwang-sook and LX Hotel chairman Han Dong-seok (Ahn Jae-wook), whose paths have unexpectedly intertwined. A drama official commented, “For Eagle Brothers” masterfully blends themes of family and tradition while delivering both lighthearted and deeply emotional moments. We hope viewers continue to enjoy the journey of Gwang-sook and the five brothers as they navigate their unique family dynamic.”
With its fresh take on family bonds and the intriguing backdrop of a traditional brewery, “For Eagle Brothers” airs every Saturday and Sunday at 8 PM. The next episode (Episode 11) is set to air on March 8th at 8 PM, and fans eagerly anticipate whether Ahn Jae-wook’s confident 30% viewership pledge will come to fruition.
