Park Min-young's 'Confidence Queen' Struggles with Ratings but Gains Global Attention

Park Min-young, once hailed as the 'Queen of Ratings' for her successful dramas, is facing a challenge with her latest project. The TV CHOSUN drama 'Confidence Queen,' which generated buzz even before its release, is struggling with ratings, remaining in the 1% range. The 10th episode, aired on the 5th, recorded a series-low of 0.7%.

However, the 11th episode, aired on October 11th, showcased intense plot twists and maintained its position in the Amazon Prime Worldwide TOP10 chart according to Flix Patrol. It also dominated the TOP1 spot in Southeast Asian countries, proving its global OTT appeal. Additionally, it ranked in the TOP3 of Coupang Play's weekly popular works, securing the highest position among dramas in the TOP10, demonstrating its continued interest.

In the storyline, Myung Goo-ho (played by Joo Jong-hyuk) discovers that his father's death was a murder, leading to anger towards Yoon Yi-rang (played by Park Min-young) and James (played by Park Hee-soon) for hiding the truth for five years. As Myung Goo-ho leaves, James also departs, leaving Yoon Yi-rang to strategize her approach to Kang Yo-seop (played by Kim Tae-hoon) alone.

Myung Goo-ho, now working as a dormitory manager, seeks legal advice on reopening his father's murder case but is disheartened to learn that the statute of limitations prevents prosecution. Meanwhile, James watches Myung Goo-ho from afar, feeling lonely, and finds solace in a playful interaction with Go Sang-hee (played by Han Groo).

The next day, a live broadcast features a meeting of influential figures, including the Minister of Land, Yoo Sang-won (played by Eom Hyo-seop), and the head of the world's largest oil company, ANK. Kang Yo-seop predicts the 'Mega Eco City Project' could yield profits exceeding 30 trillion won, akin to a second Middle East boom.

Yoon Yi-rang plans to infiltrate Kang Yo-seop's company as a new employee, crafting a perfect thesis for her interview. Despite her confidence, Kang Yo-seop rejects her, revealing his strategy to keep her in check. Meanwhile, Kang Yo-seop becomes intrigued by a blog post linking Yoon Yi-rang to the Minister's daughter.

Yoon Yi-rang, feeling wronged by her rejection, visits Kang Yo-seop's home, pleading for a contract position. She reflects on her situation, determined to succeed. Meanwhile, James fights off Go Sang-hee's ex-husband, only to be shocked by her affection for another man. Yoon Yi-rang offers comfort, and they decide to team up again.

Myung Goo-ho, attempting to catch a food thief, discovers Jo Young-gam (played by Kang Nam-gil) is the culprit. In a confrontation, Myung Goo-ho injures his hand protecting Jo Young-gam, who later collapses. Visiting him in the hospital, Myung Goo-ho learns of Jo Young-gam's VIP status and receives a cryptic promise.

Yoon Yi-rang witnesses the Minister's secretary visiting Kang Yo-seop's office, learning of a proposal for Kang Yo-seop to lead the 'Mega Eco City Support Team.' Despite her doubts, she follows Kang Yo-seop to a hotel, where they encounter influential figures, including Jo Man-bok, revealed to be Jo Young-gam, and Myung Goo-ho, now a CFO.

The episode ends with a shocking reunion, as Jo Man-bok introduces Myung Goo-ho as the new CFO, leaving Yoon Yi-rang and James stunned. The cliffhanger raises anticipation for the finale.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr