'UDT: Our Neighborhood Special Forces' Concludes with Top Ratings, Hits 5.5% Peak Viewership

The genie TV X Coupang Play original series 'UDT: Our Neighborhood Special Forces' successfully wrapped up its run on Tuesday, the 16th, with its highly anticipated finale.

The series, which consistently maintained the No. 1 spot in the 2049 target audience viewership for its time slot on the ENA channel, achieved a remarkable feat in its final episode. It recorded a peak viewership rating of 5.5% nationwide per minute and 5.2% in the Seoul metropolitan area per minute, securing the No. 1 position among Monday-Tuesday dramas with a nationwide average of 5%.

'UDT: Our Neighborhood Special Forces' tells the humorous and thrilling story of a team of reserve special forces operatives who unite not to protect the nation or world peace, but solely for the sake of their families and their neighborhood.

Episode 9 saw the plot reach its climax with the full revelation of the serial bombing incidents that shook Changri-dong. As the villains hidden within the neighborhood began to surface one by one, the episode intensely depicted the efforts of the 'Neighborhood Special Forces' as they fought valiantly to protect their community from their respective positions.

Particularly impactful was the explosion scene on the church rooftop, which highlighted the sacrifice of 'Kwak Byeong-nam' (Jin Seon-kyu) and the desperation of 'Choi Kang' (Yoon Kye-sang), leaving a strong impression. The subsequent hospital scene skillfully balanced the tense situation with humorous dialogue, showcasing the drama's signature pacing.

Kwak Byeong-nam's selfless act of saving Choi Kang transcended mere action, resonating with viewers through its portrayal of unwavering friendship and mutual protection. Meanwhile, the relationship between 'Jung Nam-yeon' (Kim Ji-hyun), who rescued Assemblywoman 'Na Eun-jae' (Lee Bong-ryeon), added depth to the narrative. The lingering presence of 'Sullivan' (Han Jun-woo), like a shadow, hinted at impending crises beneath the seemingly peaceful daily lives, heightening the suspense.

Episode 10 depicted the moment the 'Neighborhood Special Forces' truly became a cohesive team, erupting with chemistry. The bomb source neutralization operation, initiated by 'Park Jeong-hwan''s idea, unfolded as the 'Changri-dong Operation,' combining individual expertise with practical, everyday skills, delivering a thrilling catharsis.

Under the central command of 'Lee Yong-hee' (Go Kyu-pil), the neighbors engaged in a piecemeal battle, creating perfect teamwork. The setting, where familiar neighborhood locations like hardware stores, supermarkets, laundromats, and transmission towers became the stage for the operation, maximized the unique tension and humor of 'UDT: Our Neighborhood Special Forces.' The contributions of 'Kim Soo-il' (Heo Jun-seok) and laundromat owner 'Oh Chun-bae' (Jeong Seok-yong) further added to the fresh entertainment.

In the climax of episode 10, Choi Kang's harrowing choice to rescue his kidnapped daughter 'Do-yeon' (Park Ji-yoon) propelled viewers to the peak of immersion. In that moment, Choi Kang and Sullivan transcended the good-vs-evil dynamic, posing profound questions about loss, revenge, and the responsibility of choice. The conclusion, which ultimately favored choices that protect people, clearly imprinted the message and worldview the series aimed to convey.

In essence, episodes 9 and 10 of 'UDT: Our Neighborhood Special Forces' concluded with a finale that delivered both laughter and lingering emotion, completing the series' emotional arc centered around the keywords 'neighbor' and 'us,' alongside the irreplaceable chemistry of the neighbors and thrilling action.

Delivering suspenseful events and delightful humor in every episode, 'UDT: Our Neighborhood Special Forces,' the genie TV X Coupang Play original series that announced the birth of a beloved 'neighborhood hero,' can be rewatched on genie TV and Coupang Play.

Netizens raved online, with comments like 'This show was a total blast! Hope for Season 2!', 'The cast's chemistry was off the charts,' and 'It perfectly blended comedy, action, and heartwarming moments.'