K-Drama 'Chief Kim' Delivers Laughs

The SBS Friday-Saturday drama 'Chief Detective 1958' has surpassed 15% viewership ratings in just two episodes, heralding a syndrome on the small screen this summer. This result further strengthens the upward trend of Friday-Saturday dramas, following the success of its predecessor, 'The Midnight Studio'. SBS plans to continue its Friday-Saturday drama-centric programming in the latter half of the year, suggesting that competition for the top drama spot could intensify until the end of the year.

SBS has historically shown strength in the Friday-Saturday drama market, producing numerous hit shows that exceeded 20% viewership, such as 'Stove League', 'Dr. Romantic', 'The Fiery Priest', and 'Taxi Driver'. This year began with high ratings for 'Taxi Driver 3', and 'The Midnight Studio' and 'Chief Detective 1958' have since achieved consecutive box office success, reviving the momentum of SBS's Friday-Saturday dramas.

Amidst this trend, 'Chief Detective 1958' has garnered an explosive response, recording a nationwide viewership rating of 15.7% and a peak moment of 18.1% in just two episodes. This marks the first time in approximately five years, since 'The Penthouse 3' in 2021, that a drama has surpassed 15% viewership in its first two episodes, and it is the fastest-growing drama of any mini-series aired this year.

Not only viewership ratings but also buzz indicators are overwhelming. In its first week of broadcast, 'Chief Detective 1958' ranked first in TV drama buzz and second in integrated TV and OTT drama buzz. Lead actor Lee Je-hoon also topped the list for actor buzz. The drama has also started to gain international attention, ranking high on global OTT platforms.

This achievement is even more significant as it was accomplished despite the pressure of the previous drama's success. At the production presentation, Director Lee Seung-young of 'Chief Detective 1958' expressed confidence in the genre's appeal, stating, "If 'The Midnight Studio' was a sweet cake, 'Chief Detective 1958' will offer a spicy and refreshing taste." This confidence has translated into viewership ratings and buzz, bolstering the momentum of SBS's Friday-Saturday dramas.