Kim Yeon-koung's 'Rookie Director' Dominates Ratings for 3 Consecutive Weeks, Mongolian Player Inkushi Also Gains Traction

MBC's entertainment program 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-koung,' featuring volleyball legend Kim Yeon-koung's transition to coaching, has solidified its position as a rising star in the variety show scene, securing the top spot in both buzz and viewership ratings for three consecutive weeks.

On November 4th, MBC announced that according to the 'Findex Report: K-Content Competitiveness Analysis' (5th week of October) released by Good Data Corporation, 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-koung' ranked first in the TV-OTT Sunday non-drama category for the third week in a row. Furthermore, Kim Yeon-koung herself claimed the top spot in the TV non-drama cast buzzworthy index for three consecutive weeks, demonstrating the immense popularity of both the program and its star.

Notably, Mongolian player Inkushi, affectionately nicknamed 'Nepkushi,' secured the 4th position in the TV non-drama cast buzzworthy index. This highlights the significant attention viewers are paying not only to Director Kim Yeon-koung but also to the athletes of 'Victory Wondedogs.' Inkushi has captured the audience's hearts with his unique 'Nep!' reaction during matches, his improving gameplay, and his passionate fighting spirit, earning him widespread support.

The Good Data Corporation analysis, released on November 3rd, examined netizens' reactions from October 27th to November 2nd across news articles, blogs, communities, videos, and social media for 192 TV-OTT and 175 TV non-drama programs currently airing or scheduled to air.

The upward trend in viewership ratings is equally impressive. According to Nielsen Korea, the 6th episode of MBC's 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-koung' achieved a 3.0% viewership rating in the 2049 demographic, a key indicator of channel competitiveness. This marks the program's third consecutive week topping the Sunday variety show charts in the 2049 demographic, firmly establishing 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-koung' as a powerhouse in new variety programming.

'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-koung' chronicles the challenges and growth of the 'Victory Wondedogs' team, led by volleyball legend Kim Yeon-koung in her new directorial role. The program's authentic leadership, emphasis on teamwork, and the athletes' compelling growth narratives are resonating deeply with viewers, setting a 'new standard for sports entertainment.' The show is produced with support from the Ministry of Science and ICT and the Korea Communications Agency (KCA). It airs every Sunday at 9:10 PM.

/ monamie@osen.co.kr

[Photo] Courtesy of MBC.

Netizens are buzzing with praise, with comments like "Director Kim Yeon-koung's leadership is truly amazing," "I can't help but smile every time player Inkushi says 'Nep!' lol," and "This is my first time watching a sports variety show this fun!" Many are expressing their enjoyment of the program and their affection for the players.