“When Life Gives You Tangerines” Tops Netflix Globally Could It Be 2025’s Perfect K-Drama Masterpiece?

Near-perfect Global Success

After just three weeks of storming through several Asian countries, “When Life Gives You Tangerines“ has officially hit a new milestone: No.1 globally on Netflix’s non-English TV chart. According to Netflix’s Tudum on April 26, the drama logged 5.5 million views (based on viewing hours divided by total run time) after releasing Act 3 (episodes 9–12).

The series currently ranks in the top 10 across 42 countries and is No.1 in many, marking a major breakthrough for an original Korean Netflix production and has captivated audiences worldwide.

Beyond chart dominance, the drama has been warmly received on major global review platforms. It currently holds a 9.3 rating on IMDb and a stellar 98% on Rotten Tomatoes, a rare feat for any emotionally heavy K-drama. Even from its debut week, these high scores reflect the show’s powerful storytelling despite its tragic overtones and emotional rollercoaster.

Beloved across Korea and Asia

Before making waves globally, “When Life Gives You Tangerines” had already become a household name in Korea. A Gallup Korea survey (March 18–20, 2025) revealed the show was the most favored drama with a 6.9% preference rating, making it the fifth Korean Netflix original to achieve this feat domestically.

It has also gained massive popularity in other Asian countries like Japan, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia, thanks to its heartfelt storyline and powerful performances.

Only One Imperfection

Only one final Act (episodes 13–16) of the series remains, set to be released on March 28, 2025 on Netflix. As the finale approaches, fans are growing concerned about a tragic ending, especially since the first episode hinted at the female lead Ae Soon living alone in a nursing home—possibly after the passing of her husband, Gwan Sik.

While it’s clear the couple spent their lives together, viewers are not emotionally ready to witness either character’s departure. Many are holding onto hope for a healing, satisfying ending, one that would solidify “When Life Gives You Tangerines” as a touchstone of emotional storytelling in early 2020s Korean television.

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