Why Did You Kiss?': Jang Ki-yong's Black Hole Charm Captivates Global Audiences

SBS drama 'Why Did You Kiss?' is generating explosive reactions not only domestically but also overseas, proving its global appeal.

The series has topped viewership ratings for weekday dramas across all channels in Korea and even secured the No. 1 spot on Netflix's Global Top 10 (Non-English TV, Nov 24-30).

At the heart of this phenomenon is actor Jang Ki-yong, who plays Gong Ji-hyuk. He embodies a versatile charm that is handsome, funny, heartwarming, and deeply moving, drawing viewers into the story.

In the 7th episode, aired on December 3rd, Gong Ji-hyuk found himself consumed by love. He felt an undeniable attraction to Go Da-rim (played by Ahn Eun-jin) after a 'cataclysmic' kiss. However, he couldn't express his feelings due to a firm misunderstanding: he believed she was a mother and a married woman.

Having witnessed his mother suffer her entire life due to his father's infidelity, Gong Ji-hyuk considered adultery an unforgivable sin.

Despite his internal conflict, Go Da-rim's vulnerability and tendency to get hurt constantly troubled him. When he heard she hadn't returned after searching for a missing child, he rushed into the rain and mountains to find her, eventually discovering her collapsed near a cave.

Seeking shelter from the rain, he held the shivering Go Da-rim tightly. Soon, his own body felt feverish. Holding her hand, he confessed, “I’m not a good person. I’m wavering. Me too,” revealing the pent-up love he felt.

However, the situation became complicated with the sudden appearance of Kim Sun-woo (played by Kim Mu-jun). Believing Kim Sun-woo to be Go Da-rim's husband, Gong Ji-hyuk inexplicably pulled Go Da-rim's hand in front of him, openly displaying his feelings.

Returning home that night, Gong Ji-hyuk suffered from a feverish love. He dreamt of his father, who spoke of love and how Ji-hyuk was no different. In the dream, his father transformed into his own image and cruelly stated, “You desperately want that woman. You and I are the same.” This dream reflected Ji-hyuk’s anguish over his forbidden love.

Eventually, Gong Ji-hyuk coldly addressed Go Da-rim, who had come to check on him: “Does your husband know you're here? Don’t cross the line.” While his love for her was undeniable, his eyes conveyed the deep pain of being unable to reveal it.

In the end, Gong Ji-hyuk declared his intention to marry Yoo Ha-young (played by Woo Do-han), choosing Go Da-rim's happiness over his own – a painful expression of his love.

Jang Ki-yong, who initially shone with his charming rom-com performance, transitioned seamlessly to portray the heartbreaking emotions of a man consumed by love. His gaze, expressions, tone, and voice all conveyed the pain of his love, heightening the drama's immersion. His sudden transformation in scenes reflecting the character's inner turmoil was particularly impressive.

The charm of the male lead is crucial for the success of rom-coms. Jang Ki-yong, with his multifaceted charisma, is proving to be the 'ultimate rom-com lead,' captivating viewers' eyes and hearts. His sweep of global female hearts through the No. 1 hit 'Why Did You Kiss?' is expected to continue.

Netizens are praising Jang Ki-yong's versatile acting, commenting 'Jang Ki-yong's acting is insane,' and 'I've truly fallen for Gong Ji-hyuk.' His chemistry with Ahn Eun-jin is also a frequent topic of discussion.