The new tvN drama “Shin’s Project” has broken the network’s ratings record for 2025. The show’s third episode, which aired on September 22, 2025, scored an average nationwide viewership of 8.0 percent, making it the highest-rated Monday-Tuesday drama on tvN this year. The broadcast also hit a peak rating of 9.5 percent, securing the top spot in its time slot across all channels, including public broadcasters.
What Is Shin’s Project About?
“Shin’s Project” is a black comedy series that stars Han Suk-kyu as Mr. Shin, a former top-class negotiator who now runs a fried chicken restaurant. Behind his ordinary appearance, he uses his sharp mind and masterful skills to mediate disputes and deliver justice. The main cast includes Bae Hyun-sung as Jo Philip, a rookie judge who is unexpectedly assigned to work at the chicken shop, and Lee Re as Lee Si-on, a bold delivery rider who assists in their missions.
The drama is directed by Shin Kyung-soo and written by Ban Ki-ri. It began airing on September 15, 2025, and plans to run for 12 episodes every Monday and Tuesday at 8:50 PM KST until October 28.
A Look at the Rising Ratings
The drama’s record-breaking success on September 22 did not happen overnight. It has shown a strong and steady increase in viewership since its premiere, indicating growing audience interest.
- Episode 1 (September 15): The series started strong with an average rating of 5.9 percent nationwide, which was already the highest premiere for a tvN Monday-Tuesday drama in 2025.
- Episode 2 (September 16): The very next night, viewership climbed sharply to an average of 7.4 percent.
- Episode 3 (September 22): The show broke its own record again, achieving the new high of 8.0 percent.
This consistent growth demonstrates the show’s ability to hook viewers and keep them coming back each week.
What Happened in the Latest Episode?
The storyline follows Mr. Shin as he takes on cases referred by a senior judge. The first major case involves a conflict between a group of salted seafood merchants and a television network. A news report about maggots found in the merchants’ food has ruined their livelihoods. While initially appearing to settle the case, Mr. Shin uncovers a larger scheme involving a real estate company planning to build a resort on the market’s land.
In a tense turn of events, after tearing up the settlement papers to seek proper justice, Mr. Shin and Judge Philip found themselves in danger. Their car was trapped on a railway track just as a train was approaching, creating a major cliffhanger that left viewers on the edge of their seats.
The drama mixes everyday life at the chicken restaurant with high-stakes negotiation and action, creating a unique blend of comedy, social commentary, and thriller elements.
Why Is the Drama So Popular?
The show’s success is driven by several key factors. The performance of veteran actor Han Suk-kyu is a major draw. He seamlessly transitions between the friendly, humorous chicken shop owner and the brilliant, calculating negotiator. His chemistry with co-star Bae Hyun-sung, who plays the straight-laced rookie judge, provides a compelling dynamic. Lee Re adds energy and comic relief as the savvy delivery rider.
The directing by Shin Kyung-soo, who previously worked with Han Suk-kyu on the hit drama “Tree With Deep Roots,” is also praised for skillfully moving the story between cozy scenes and suspenseful action.
Where to Watch
“Shin’s Project” airs on the tvN network in South Korea. For international audiences, the series is available for streaming on Viu in select regions, including Singapore and Malaysia.
Also Read: MBC’s New Drama “To the Moon” Premieres with 2.8% Rating Amid Tough Competition
