“When Life Gives You Tangerines” Shatters Records: Highest IMDb Score in Korean Drama History, Surpassing “Squid Game”
Netflix’s original Korean series “When Life Gives You Tangerines” has become an unprecedented global phenomenon, breaking records in both critical reception and viewer engagement, surpassing hits like “Squid Game” and “The Glory” in the process.
A Historic Breakthrough in Korean Drama
Netflix’s original series “When Life Gives You Tangerines” is now officially the highest-rated Korean drama on IMDb, earning a stunning 9.4/10, a full 0.7-point leap from its debut rating of 8.7. The show’s finale (Episode 16) received a near-perfect 9.8, and 12 out of 16 episodes surpassed the 9.0 threshold. This performance eclipses past fan favorites such as “Kingdom” Season 2 (8.5), “Move to Heaven” (8.5), “The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call” (8.4), “Squid Game” Season 1 (8.0), and “The Glory” Season 2 (8.1).
The drama’s acclaim isn’t just critical. According to IGAWorks Mobile Index, Netflix Korea reached 14.09 million monthly active users in March 2024, breaking its previous record set during “The Glory”’s peak. On March 29, it also saw 4.05 million daily active users, its best one-day figure since “Squid Game” Season 2 in December 2023.
Additionally, the series topped Netflix’s non-English TV rankings from March 17 to 23 and stood at #8 globally on April 3 (per FlixPatrol), showcasing its global appeal.
Why Viewers Worldwide Fell in Love?
Set in 1950s Jeju and spanning six decades, “When Life Gives You Tangerines” follows the life of Oh Ae-soon (played by IU and Moon So-ri), a spirited rebel who dreams of becoming a poet, and Yang Gwan-sik (played by Park Bo-gum and Park Hae-joon), a quiet yet resolute childhood friend. Together, their story touches on themes of first love, hardship, family bonds, and resilience. The final scene, in which an elderly Ae-soon publishes her poetry book, left viewers in tears across the world.
Despite its deeply Korean backdrop, including Jeju dialect and rich cultural nuances, the drama resonated globally, especially in Southeast Asia and Latin America. Reactions from fans included, “Like watching my mother’s life,” and “Painful yet healing.” The emotional depth and authentic performances by IU, Park Bo-gum, Moon So-ri, and Park Hae-joon transcended language barriers, delivering a universal experience.
Creative Power, Cinematic Storytelling, and Legacy
Written by Lim Sang-choon (Fight For My Way, When the Camellia Blooms) and directed by Kim Won-seok (My Mister, Misaeng), the series was built to “break invisible walls” and tell a story that resonates across generations. IU’s dual role as both Ae-soon and her daughter was especially praised, while Park Bo-gum delivered one of his most mature and understated performances to date.
The unique four-act seasonal rollout, with episodes released in weekly clusters, helped deepen immersion and emotional pacing. Cinematically rich and character-driven, the series wasn’t just another hit, it redefined expectations for Korean storytelling on the global stage.
Following its June 28 finale, “When Life Gives You Tangerines” has cemented itself as a landmark in K-drama history. More than just a ratings success, it’s a deeply human tale that showcases the artistic heights Korean content can reach.
