tvN's 'The Tyrant's Chef' is making waves both domestically and internationally, setting new records and captivating audiences worldwide.
From its early episodes, 'The Tyrant's Chef' showed signs of becoming a hit. In its second week, the show's ratings more than doubled compared to its premiere week, achieving a 'quantum leap.' The undeniable chemistry between stars Im Yoon-ah (as Yeon Ji-young) and Lee Chae-min (as Lee Heon), combined with the intriguing blend of time travel and traditional Korean cuisine, directed by the masterful Jang Tae-yoo, has garnered widespread acclaim. As a result, the show has consistently ranked first in its time slot across all channels for four consecutive weeks, with a peak household rating of 18.1% in the Seoul metropolitan area, setting new records each week.
On TVING, 'The Tyrant's Chef' ranked first in VOD UV during its broadcast period (from August 23 to September 21). Additionally, it topped the TV-OTT drama buzz index for five consecutive weeks, with Im Yoon-ah leading the actor buzz index for the same period. Lee Chae-min also ranked first in brand reputation according to the Korea Corporate Reputation Research Institute's September 2025 big data analysis. Furthermore, it was named the most popular broadcast video program in Korea by Gallup Korea in September 2025.
Globally, the show is creating a sensation. On Netflix, it achieved the top spot in the non-English TV show category for two consecutive weeks, marking a first for a tvN drama. This continuous record-breaking performance underscores the global popularity of 'The Tyrant's Chef.'
A representative from CJ ENM's content distribution department stated, "'The Tyrant's Chef' combines the star power of world-renowned Im Yoon-ah and rising star Lee Chae-min with a well-blended mix of romance, comedy, fantasy, and historical elements, offering a familiar yet fresh appeal that has been well-received in the global market."
Another noteworthy metric is its digital buzz. tvN has been engaging audiences across various social platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, creating shareable content that adds to the show's appeal. As a result, 'The Tyrant's Chef' has surpassed 650 million total video views, with fans worldwide creating additional content focused on the show's food and iconic scenes, further enhancing its buzz. This demonstrates the show's ability to transcend language and cultural barriers, fostering a passionate global fandom.
A tvN representative added, "tvN aims to present content that offers universal enjoyment and resonates with audiences of all ages. We will continue to communicate with domestic and international viewers through differentiated content like 'The Tyrant's Chef,' strengthening the global standing of K-dramas."
By Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr