‘Tyrant Chef’ Sparks Global Frenzy, Shattering Records

The drama ‘Tyrant Chef’ is continuously setting new records both domestically and internationally, fueled by immense viewer enthusiasm.

Garnering critical acclaim from its premiere, ‘Tyrant Chef’ demonstrated its potential for success early on, with viewership doubling in its second week – a true ‘quantum leap.’ The remarkable chemistry between stars Im Yoon-ah and Lee Chae-min, combined with the compelling fusion of time travel and traditional Korean cuisine, directed by the masterful Jang Tae-yoo, has earned widespread praise.

This success translated into a dominant streak, topping the ratings chart for its time slot across all channels for four consecutive weeks. It achieved a peak viewership of 18.1% in the Seoul metropolitan area, consistently breaking its own records each week. On the streaming front, ‘Tyrant Chef’ secured the number one spot for VOD UV on TVING during its broadcast period and has held the top position for TV-OTT drama buzz for five consecutive weeks according to Fundex.

The show's popularity extends globally, topping Netflix's Non-English TV Shows chart for two weeks, a first for a tvN drama. CJ ENM noted that the combined star power of Im Yoon-ah and rising star Lee Chae-min, along with the blend of romance, comedy, fantasy, and historical backdrop, offered a uniquely captivating experience for international audiences.

Digital engagement has also been extraordinary. Across platforms like Instagram and TikTok, total video views related to ‘Tyrant Chef’ have surpassed 650 million. Fans worldwide are actively creating secondary content inspired by the drama's food and memorable scenes, amplifying its buzz beyond language and cultural barriers. A tvN representative stated their commitment to delivering content that resonates with audiences, enhancing the global standing of K-dramas.

‘Tyrant Chef’ has not only captivated audiences with its narrative but also served as a showcase for the rich tapestry of Korean culinary arts on a global scale. Im Yoon-ah's portrayal of her character has been lauded for its nuanced emotional depth, further solidifying her status as a versatile actress. This drama marks a significant breakthrough for Lee Chae-min, cementing his position as a leading young actor in the industry.