Dear X Claims OTT Platforms Rankings in 108 Countries

Dear X dominates global charts worldwide.
Kim Yoo Jung's performance is widely praised.
She fosters strong teamwork behind the scenes.

The buzz around the K-drama 'Dear X' is proving to be anything but quiet. Since its premiere, this provocative series has captured the global audience's imagination, quickly transforming from a highly anticipated release into a full-blown international phenomenon. Its compelling, dark narrative and powerhouse performances have made it the must-watch show of the moment, dominating conversations both online and off.

This isn't just hype confined to its home country, the proof is in the global numbers. 'Dear X' is achieving what many series dream of, simultaneously shooting to the top of charts on multiple major streaming platforms across the world. Let's take a closer look at the incredible details of its worldwide domination.

'Dear X' Climbs OTT Platform Rankings in 108 Countries

Since its released, 'Dear X' has been on a relentless upward trajectory. The series, which is TVing's first-ever global simultaneous release, has now cemented its prestige by achieving a monumental feat, topping the charts in a staggering 108 countries across major OTT services like HBO Max, Disney+ Japan, Rakuten Viki, and STARZPLAY. 

This isn't a minor success, it's a clean sweep. The drama has secured the number one spot in powerhouse markets including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Brazil, Mexico, and India. Its performance in Asia has been equally impressive, breaking into the Top 3 on Disney+ Japan's daily charts, while HBO Max has officially recognized it as one of the highest-performing Asian titles in 17 markets, including Southeast Asia, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.

The show's appeal has proven to be truly universal, making significant inroads in the Middle East and Africa through STARZPLAY. In a strategic first for a CJ ENM title, it was released with simultaneous Arabic subtitles, allowing it to connect directly with local audiences. This move paid off handsomely, with the drama climbing into the Top 5 in key markets like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, signaling a strong and engaged viewership in the region. A TVing representative highlighted the significance of this achievement.

“The explosive reaction to our first global launch reaffirms the competitive power of K-content. This achievement serves as a meaningful milestone demonstrating how original IP from a Korean OTT can successfully expand overseas. We expect Dear X to solidify its position as a flagship example of K-content as it continues to build its global fanbase," a TVing representative confessed.

The recently released episodes 7 and 8 have only added more fuel to the fire, plunging viewers deeper into the intricate web of lies and ambition. The plot thickens as swirling dating rumors between the cunning Baek Ah Jin (Kim Yoo Jung) and the ensnared Heo In Kang (Hwang In Yeob) complicate the emotional landscape, putting everyone on edge. 

All eyes are on Baek Ah Jin's perilous ascent, watched with a mix of anxiety and fascination by the male leads surrounding her, Yoon Jun Seo (Kim Young Dae) and Kim Jae Oh (Kim Do Hoon). Online, netizens are erupting with praise, leaving comments such as:

“The acting is incredible, so immersive,” 

“Kim Yoo Jung is Baek A Jin; she’s phenomenal.” 

“This drama is unbelievably good.” 

“It’s been a while since I’ve enjoyed something this much.” 

“Please release the next episodes,I’m dying over here.”

Kim Yoo Jung's Performance is a Major Draw

It's undeniable that a significant part of the magnetic pull of 'Dear X' comes from the breathtaking performance of its lead actress, Kim Yoo Jung. The actress, a veteran of the screen since childhood, undergoes a stunning transformation to play Baek Ah Jin, a complex and ambitious woman who dons a metaphorical mask to escape her painful past and claw her way to the top of society, no matter who she has to trample along the way. 

The "X" in the title refers to those very people she coldly uses and discards in her ruthless pursuit of power. Fans have been utterly captivated by her chilling and nuanced portrayal, flooding social media with adoration.

Stepping into such a dark, leading role after 23 years in the industry naturally comes with a great sense of duty, and Kim Yoo Jung has fully embraced it. She revealed that her method of getting into character was so intense that it created a palpable distance on set. 

"Because of the character, I didn’t interact much with the actors on set. I didn’t realize it, but people told me, 'As soon as filming ended, you became nice again. Your eyes changed and your expressions came back,'" she shared. 

This dedication to her craft, however, made her consciously work to foster team harmony. Understanding that it could be hard to get close to people easily, she took the initiative like a true leader. 

"So, I put in a lot of effort. During filming, I always make a lot of calls. Every one or two weeks, I call everyone. I ask if they're doing well, how their condition is, and whether they had any trouble while shooting their scenes. I think it's important to communicate," Kim Yoo Jung explained. 

When joked that she sounded like a homeroom teacher, Kim Yoo Jung laughed but reaffirmed her commitment, saying, "I try to make sure the mood doesn’t go bad and that we all finish well together," showcasing the profound sense of responsibility that she carries not just for her role, but for the entire production.

Source: Allkpop, YouTube/Fairy Jaehyung, wikitree.co.kr