The Rise of When Life Gives You Tangerines on Netflix
On April 21, 2025, MBC Entertainment shed light on a compelling story behind the success of When Life Gives You Tangerines. Initially, Netflix Korea’s vice president harbored doubts about how this drama would be received globally. However, these worries have proven unfounded as the series has transformed into a worldwide phenomenon, consistently ranking high on Netflix’s global charts.
Overview of the Series
Premiering on March 7, 2025, When Life Gives You Tangerines features 16 captivating episodes that delve into the lives of Ae-sun, portrayed by IU, and Gwan-sik, played by Park Bo-gum. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Jeju Island, the narrative unfolds from the 1960s to modern times, capturing the dreams and challenges faced by everyday people in post-war Korea.
Viewer Engagement and Success
This distinctive portrayal of life has resonated deeply with viewers, leading to the show being featured in Netflix’s Top 10 Non-English Shows for six consecutive weeks, garnering over 60.6 million views in total. The show’s authenticity and its reflection of generational struggles struck a chord with a global audience.
Initial Concerns and Surprising Turnaround
Kang, the vice president at Netflix Korea, expressed his initial concerns regarding the series’ deviation from traditional K-drama formulas. In a translation by @melloviciousiu, he stated:
“We really loved this project, but that doesn’t mean we didn’t have concerns about releasing it. We were worried about whether global audiences would truly connect with it. But When Life Gives You Tangerines became a great example.”
He elaborated further:
“When we released it outside of Korea, it received immense empathy and reactions that reflected a sense of Korean emotion that had never really been seen before.”
Rapid Ascent on Global Charts
Upon its release, When Life Gives You Tangerines quickly climbed the global Netflix rankings, securing the No. 2 position in the non-English TV category within just two weeks. The drama had 3.6 million views in its first three days, translating into approximately 13.9 million hours of viewing time. It ascended from No. 4 to No. 2 in its second week with an additional 6 million views.
International Appeal
Crossing geographical boundaries, the series made it to the Top 10 in 41 countries, including South Korea, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Brazil, Mexico, and Turkey. Themes surrounding love, perseverance, and family resonated deeply, establishing the show as a global success.
A Rich Tapestry of Characters and Themes
The plot of When Life Gives You Tangerines spans 50 years and follows the evolving relationship between Ae-sun and Gwan-sik. Their journey intertwines with the broader socioeconomic and political changes in Korea over the decades, allowing viewers to witness various personal and professional challenges that shape their love story.
Emotional Depth and Cultural Significance
The show handles complex issues, including ambition and family dynamics, which deeply resonated with audiences. Discussions about Gwan-sik’s relationship with his daughter Geum-myeong, as well as feelings of neglect and the sacrifices parents make for their children, struck a particular chord among viewers.
Additionally, the series reflects on South Korea’s economic fluctuations, specifically highlighting the 1980s crisis. It poignantly portrays the struggles that families faced during this era, underscoring the loss of dreams and aspirations.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage
Integral to the narrative is the historical and cultural significance of Jeju Island, particularly through the representation of Haenyeos, the courageous female divers of Korea. These remarkable women, who have risked their lives diving for seafood for over a millennium, are featured in the show’s storyline, which adds another layer of depth and cultural insight.
Production Quality and Investment
With a production budget of approximately $41.5 million, When Life Gives You Tangerines stands as one of the most expensively produced Korean dramas to date. The meticulous attention to detail regarding sets, costumes, and cinematography has successfully showcased the stunning landscapes of Jeju Island, further enriching the viewing experience.
The show’s remarkable success exemplifies the growing global demand for Korean content that marries cultural specificity with universal themes. Its ability to connect with international audiences suggests a promising future for similar Korean dramas seeking global acclaim.
Conclusion: A Must-Watch Series
Currently streaming on Netflix, When Life Gives You Tangerines invites viewers to embark on a heartfelt journey of love and resilience, universally appealing themes that celebrate the enduring human spirit.