The latest drama film featuring a renowned South Korean actor is achieving notable success on Netflix. As a leading global streaming service, Netflix offers a diverse array of licensed and original content. Its extensive library includes beloved titles such as the retro sci-fi series Stranger Things, the thriller film Carry-On, the reimagined take on The Addams Family titled Wednesday, the Regency romance Bridgerton, and Ryan Murphy’s anthology series Monster, based on true crime.
Netflix has successfully engaged a worldwide audience with a portfolio that includes both subtitled and dubbed English-language films and TV shows, alongside an impressive lineup of regional programming. Among the most popular offerings are various productions from Spain such as Money Heist, Berlin, and Elite, as well as K-dramas from South Korea, including Sweet Home, All of Us Are Dead, and Extraordinary Attorney Woo. Notably, the K-drama sensation Squid Game remains one of Netflix’s top series, with its inaugural season holding the record for the most-watched season across all languages, while its second season ranks as the third most-viewed.
The Match Has Made a Mark on Streaming Charts
Spotlight on a K-Drama Star
A recent addition to Netflix’s catalog, The Match, is quickly attracting viewers. This Korean-language film, which premiered in South Korean theaters on March 26, is now streaming in select regions, including the United States and various Asian countries. The film stars Lee Byung-hun, known for his role in Squid Game, where he portrayed the enigmatic Front Man. In The Match, he plays the role of real-life Go champion Cho Hun-hyun, who becomes a mentor to promising player Lee Chang-ho. The narrative explores the complex relationship between the two, marked by both mentorship and ensuing tension.
Lee Byung-hun’s popularity, especially after featuring in all three seasons of Squid Game, adds considerable star power to the film.
According to Netflix’s official global chart for the week of May 5 through May 11, The Match has secured the No. 5 spot among non-English films, garnering 4.1 million viewers and a total of 7.9 million hours viewed. The film has made waves in eight Asian countries, including Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, although it peaked at No. 1 in South Korea, its country of origin.
Implications for The Match
Continuing the Trend of K-Drama Dominance
While The Match is currently performing strongly in Asian markets, its presence on a major streaming chart hints at the potential for broader international interest. If the buzz continues, it may join the ranks of other successful Netflix K-dramas that have captivated audiences in 2025. Recent months have seen a consistent trend of South Korean titles dominating Netflix charts, including Weak Hero: Class 2, Heavenly Ever After, When Life Gives You Tangerines, and Resident Playbook.
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Source: Screen Rant.