The Viral “Kim Seon-ho Smile Challenge”Captivates China’s Social Media
Kim Seon-ho’s infectious wink and smile from the Netflix series When Life Gives You Tangerines have ignited a viral phenomenon across Chinese social media platforms, notably Douyin and Xiaohongshu. Known as the “Kim Seon-ho Smile Challenge”or “金宣虎笑容模仿,”this trend has garnered over one million likes in just a matter of days, showcasing the actor’s broad appeal.
Iconic Scene Sparks Creativity
The moment fueling this trend appears in episode 13, where Kim Seon-ho, portraying Park Cheong-seop, first sees his bride-to-be, Yang Geum-myeong (played by IU), in her wedding attire. Positioned at a distance within the chapel, Geum-myeong playfully showcases her stunning look. Initially taken aback by her beauty, Cheong-seop clutches his chest in a mock swoon, tilting his head dramatically and shutting his eyes before playfully opening one eye to wink while smiling, evoking laughter from Geum-myeong.
Global Participation and Musical Influence
Fans around the globe, especially in China, have eagerly replicated this charming pose, capitalizing on the soundtrack of the popular series Meteor Garden with its song, Ai Cun Zai (Love Exists). This wave of creativity has swept Chinese platforms Douyin and Xiaohongshu, where videos featuring the challenge have proliferated.
Celebrities Join the Fun
The challenge has not only captivated the public but also attracted numerous celebrities and influencers in China. Among those who have participated are:
- Chen Zheyuan
- Xu Ruohan
- Bai Lu
- Liu Xiening
- Maxky
- Yang Chaoyue
- Li Geyang
- Lin Ziye
- Liu Nian
- Zhou Rui
- Fan Zhixin
- Yan An
- Shen Tai
- Zhai Zilu
- Zhuang Dafei
- Chen Feiyu
- Jisung of NCT Dream
- Jeno of NCT Dream
- Cai Guoqing
- Yu Long
- Yang Mie Mie
- Lil Ghost
- Huang Yu Bo
- Shen Yu Jie
- Xu Yiyang
- Zhou Yutong
- Fang Xiaodong
The Drama’s Unprecedented Success in China
Despite being bound by a ban on Netflix, the Korean drama When Life Gives You Tangerines has achieved remarkable acclaim in China. According to South Korean media source Chosun Biz, it has emerged as the highest-rated series of the year on Douban, China’s leading review platform, scoring an impressive 9.4.
Upon its premiere, the series quickly entered Netflix’s Global Top 10 non-English series chart, initially placing fourth and then steadily rising to first, reflecting strong viewer loyalty. The show’s themes resonate deeply across East Asia, touching on family and parental love, which has particularly struck a chord with Chinese audiences. Many have resorted to proxy services to access the series, highlighting its significant demand.
Multiple Chinese OTT platforms have featured clips of the show, as mainstream media is extensively covering its rising popularity. Chosun Biz noted the intense emotional reactions it elicits, with reports of a viewer experiencing a medical emergency due to the drama’s gripping scenes.
Commercial Influence and Evolving Cultural Perspectives
In a notable display of the drama’s cultural impact, a Chinese supermarket utilized promotional materials featuring When Life Gives You Tangerines to market specialty Jeju tangerines. The sweeping popularity of the “Kim Seon-ho Smile Challenge,”now embraced by prominent figures, has significantly increased the show’s visibility.
The surge in enthusiasm for the series has prompted speculation regarding a potential relaxation of China’s restrictions on Korean cultural content. The Global Times highlighted the drama’s exceptional ratings and cultural relevance in recent years, signaling a possible shift in public sentiment towards foreign media.
However, concerns over widespread piracy have also been voiced, particularly by Professor Seo Kyung-duk, who criticized China’s lax approach to unauthorized content access. He pointed out that celebrating the series while acknowledging prevalent piracy raises pressing questions about cultural consumption.
Heartfelt Narratives in When Life Gives You Tangerines
Set against the captivating backdrop of 1950s Jeju Island, When Life Gives You Tangerines tells a poignant story of youth and unfulfilled dreams. It follows Ae-sun, a young woman aspiring to be a poet, and Gwan-sik, a reticent man harboring love for her.
Ae-sun confronts societal norms with determination, while Gwan-sik’s understated affection represents a steadfast support in her journey. As they face life’s challenges, their intertwined paths create a beautiful narrative filled with youthful hopes and heartfelt experiences.
Boasting powerful performances from IU and Park Bo-gum, the series distinguished itself as one of IMDb’s highest-rated TV shows for 2025, earning a commendable score of 9.3. Praised for its rich storytelling and emotional resonance, it has captivated audiences across South Korea and beyond.
All 16 compelling episodes of When Life Gives You Tangerines are available for streaming on Netflix, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in this unforgettable tale.