Netflix series 'Monthly Boyfriend' is capturing the hearts and dreams of global viewers, sweeping both global rankings and domestic buzz. Despite the controversy surrounding BLACKPINK Jisoo's acting skills, the show is thriving, with her perceived lack of acting prowess becoming a talking point.
According to Netflix Tudum's TOP 10 website on the 11th, 'Monthly Boyfriend' ranked 4th in the global TOP 10 non-English shows category just three days after its release. It recorded 2.6 million views (calculated by dividing viewing hours by the total runtime of the show) and 25.6 million viewing hours, making it number one in terms of viewing hours. Additionally, it topped the TOP 10 series list in South Korea and appeared in the TOP 10 lists of 34 countries worldwide, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Mexico, Indonesia, Brazil, and Chile. The show also boasts a 96% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Domestically, it leads in buzz as well. It ranked first in the TV-OTT integrated drama buzz index for the first week of March, as announced by Good Data Corporation's Fundex, with Jisoo and Seo In-guk taking first and third place in actor buzz rankings, respectively.
Behind-the-scenes stills reveal the cheerful atmosphere on the set of 'Monthly Boyfriend.' Jisoo, who plays Mirae dreaming of a second chance at romance in virtual reality, showcases a variety of concepts, including a doctor, a college freshman, a webtoon character, and a flight attendant, bringing joy to viewers. Alongside Seo In-guk, she worked with a diverse cast including Seo Kang-joon, Lee Soo-hyuk, Ong Seong-wu, Kim Young-dae, Moo Jin-sung, and Park Jae-bum, delivering excitement and empathy with her versatile performances, earning her the title of chemistry queen among global audiences.
Seo In-guk shines as webtoon PD Kyung-nam and the hidden card of the virtual dating subscription service, Gu Young-il, showcasing a range of charms from indifferent yet affectionate Kyung-nam to rough yet delicate Gu Young-il, capturing viewers' attention. His romantic synergy with Jisoo further elevates the excitement for viewers. The affectionate chemistry between the two is evident in the released photos.
Special appearances by Seo Kang-joon, Lee Soo-hyuk, Kim Sung-cheol, Ong Seong-wu, Lee Jae-wook, Hoju Tarzan, Lee Hyun-wook, Kim Young-dae, Moo Jin-sung, Park Jae-bum, and Lee Sang-yi add to the show's appeal. Their performances bring realism and fun to the diverse virtual world dates and real-life romance narratives. The comedic exchanges between Kim Ah-young and Go Kyu-pil, who transform with each virtual world theme, also provide laughter.
'Monthly Boyfriend' is currently streaming on Netflix.
Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr