The heartwarming romance drama When Life Gives You Tangerines, starring IU and Park Bo Gum, is currently capturing the hearts of many in South Korea. The Netflix series has been recognized as the most beloved TV and OTT program among adult Koreans, according to a report by K-media outlet Wikitree on March 26th. This recognition comes after the show topped Gallup Korea’s poll, demonstrating its strong connection with audiences.
Topping the Charts
When Life Gives You Tangerines secured the top spot in the Gallup Korea survey conducted from March 18th to 20th. The poll involved 1,003 participants aged 18 and above from across the nation, with the results announced on March 25th. The drama achieved a notable 6.9% preference rating, outperforming other popular ongoing dramas.
This particular survey stands out as it allowed participants to freely name their favorite shows, regardless of their airing time, platform, or channel. Furthermore, since 2023, the survey has expanded to include content from Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms, acknowledging the increasing influence of online streaming services.
1. When Life Gives You Tangerines (Netflix) – 6.9%
2. Mr. Trot 3 (TV Chosun) – 4.7%
3. For Eagle Brothers (KBS2) – 3.5%
4. My Merry Marriage (KBS1) – 3.2%
5. Buried Hearts (SBS) – 2.8%
The list of the top 10 most-loved programs also included Running Man, 2 Days & 1 Night Season 4, I Am a Natural Person, and Cinderella Game.
Notably, When Life Gives You Tangerines marks the fifth Netflix series to reach the top of the Gallup survey. Previous Netflix winners include The Glory (March 2023), Culinary Class Wars (October 2024), Squid Game Season 2 (January 2025), and The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call (February 2025).
Beyond the drama’s popularity, its lead actors have also garnered significant attention. IU, the protagonist of When Life Gives You Tangerines, topped Good Data Corporation’s list of the most buzzworthy actors appearing in ongoing shows this week. Her co-star, Park Bo Gum, followed closely at No. 2 on the same list.
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Credits: IU’s Instagram, Good Data Corporation, Wikitree
