'The Bequeathed' Concludes with Record-Breaking Ratings, Leaving a Lasting Impression
The SBS Friday-Saturday drama 'The Bequeathed' has successfully wrapped up its run, achieving its highest viewership ratings to date.
According to Nielsen Korea on September 28th, the final episode aired on September 27th recorded viewership ratings of 7.9% in the Seoul metropolitan area and 7.4% nationwide, setting a new personal best. The peak viewership momentarily surged to an impressive 10.3%. The drama also demonstrated its strong buzz with a 2049 viewership rating averaging 2.5% and peaking at 3.52%.
Beyond its domestic success, 'The Bequeathed' garnered global attention, ranking within the top 6 non-English series on Netflix. The finale depicted the challenging journey of serial killer mother Jung Yi-shin (played by Go Hyun-jung) and her detective son Cha Soo-yeol (played by Jang Dong-yoon) as they confronted their intertwined fates.
In a pivotal moment, Jung Yi-shin risked her life to save her daughter-in-law Lee Jeong-yeon (played by Kim Bo-ra). Meanwhile, Cha Soo-yeol desperately searched for his mother. The episode also revealed Jung Yi-shin's traumatic past, including horrific abuse suffered at the hands of her father, deeply resonating with viewers.
The series was praised for its unique premise of a serial killer mother and detective son collaborating, its unpredictable plot twists, and the stellar performances of its cast. Director Byun Young-joo's nuanced direction further enhanced the viewer's immersion.
However, the drama concluded with a shocking cliffhanger. Two years later, Jung Yi-shin is seen in prison, visited by Cha Soo-yeol and Kim Na-hee (played by Lee El), hinting at the resumption of their collaborative investigation and leaving audiences with a lingering sense of unresolved tension.
Jung Yi-shin, portrayed by Go Hyun-jung, is a character who, despite being a victim of severe childhood abuse, becomes a serial killer. However, she desperately wishes for her son, Cha Soo-yeol, to live a life different from hers, showcasing a complex maternal love. The drama delicately portrayed her tragic past and her enduring maternal instincts.