KBS Drama 'Simu-myeon Yeonliri' Faces Ratings Decline Despite High Expectations

KBS's Thursday drama 'Simu-myeon Yeonliri', starring actor Park Sung-woong, has hit a ratings low of 1.5%. This is particularly disappointing given the star power of the lead actor and the fact that it's the first Thursday drama in six years.

Premiering on the 26th of last month, 'Simu-myeon Yeonliri' is a family drama about a city family, led by Seong Tae-hoon (played by Park Sung-woong), who find themselves in the rural area of Yeonliri and struggle to return to Seoul. The show started with a 2.7% rating but has since declined to 2.1%, 2.0%, and now 1.5% according to Nielsen Korea's nationwide data.

The drama garnered attention even before its broadcast as it marked KBS's return to Thursday dramas since 'Drama Special (2020)'. Additionally, it was Park Sung-woong's return to KBS after two years since the 2024 drama 'Gaesori'. However, the show has not lived up to expectations.

The drama's main feature is its 'healing' theme, depicting the protagonist's transformation as he interacts with the rural community. Director Choi Yeon-soo emphasized at the production presentation that unlike provocative dramas, this show focuses on ordinary life and warm family stories, aiming to provide healing and comfort.

While the show has received positive feedback for its nature-friendly setting and warm atmosphere, some viewers feel this approach has backfired. Critics point out the lack of a clear conflict between the protagonist and the village chief (played by Lee Seo-hwan), resulting in a lack of tension to drive the plot. The focus on healing has made the storyline feel bland.

The current drama market's preference for fast-paced and provocative content also poses a challenge. An industry insider noted, "Maintaining a calm narrative without dramatic developments limits immediate viewer engagement."

With 5 out of 12 episodes aired, 'Simu-myeon Yeonliri' is nearing its midpoint. As more than half of the story remains, there is interest in whether the show can turn things around by introducing plot changes or strengthening conflict structures.

Reporter: Jung Se-yoon, TenAsia yoon@tenasia.co.kr