Netflix continues its success with K-dramas as 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' has been selected as one of the most beloved shows by Koreans.

According to a survey conducted by Gallup Korea from March 18 to 20, 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' emerged as the most loved program. The results were announced on March 25, with 1,003 respondents aged 18 and older participating in the survey. 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' earned 6.9% of the votes, topping the latest poll.

This survey differed in that it went beyond considering the traditional viewership ratings. The survey allowed the participants to freely name their favorite programs regardless of the time slot, platform, or channel. Since 2023, the survey has also included OTT content to reflect the growing influence of online streaming.

'When Life Gives You Tangerines' has been releasing four episodes weekly on Netflix since March 7, with a total four-week airing run. Set in Jeju from the 1950s to the present, the drama follows the journey of literature-loving Oh Ae Soon (played by IU), and steadfast Yang Gwan Sik (portrayed by Park Bo Gum) as they grow together from childhood to adulthood and eventually become parents. In particular, IU and actress Moon So Ri portray Ae Soon in different stages of life, while Park Bo Gum and actor Park Hae Joon do the same for Gwan Sik. 

The drama garnered significant attention for bringing together writer Im Sang Choon and director Kim Won Seok. Im Sang Choon is known for the dramas 'Fight for My Way' and 'When Comellia Blooms,' and praised for capturing the sentiments and emotional depth while portraying realistic romance. Kim Won Seok is famed for directing renowned dramas such as 'Misaeng,' 'Signal,' and 'My Mister.' In each of these dramas, director Kim has been praised for his portrayal of the dynamic and complicated human relationships. 

This marks the fifth time a Netflix original has ranked No.1 in Gallup’s survey. Previously, 'The Glory' (March 2023), 'Culinary Class War' (October 2024), 'Squid Game Season 2' (January 2025), and 'The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call' (February 2025) claimed the top spot. Notably, this is the first time a single streaming platform has topped the rankings for three consecutive months, further cementing Netflix's influence.

In second place was TV Chosun's trot audition program 'Mr.Trot 3,' with a 4.7% preference rating. The show, which concluded its season on March 13 with Kim Yong Bin crowned as the final winner, garnered widespread attention. It was the only traditional TV broadcast program to challenge Netflix’s dominance, proving the continued popularity of the trot genre. The 'Mr. Trot' series has previously produced stars like Song Ga In, Lim Young Woong, Yang Ji Eun, Ahn Sung Hoon, and Jung Seo Joo.

KBS2’s weekend drama 'For Eagle Brothers,' which recently surpassed 20% in viewership, ranked third with 3.5%, followed by KBS1’s daily drama 'My Merry Marriage' (3.2%) at fourth place. SBS’s Friday-Saturday drama 'Buried Hearts' secured the fifth spot with 2.8%. Other shows in the top 10 included 'Running Man,' '2 Days & 1 Night Season 4,' 'I Am a Natural Person,' and 'Cinderella Game.'

SEE ALSO: IU shares more behind-the-scenes cuts from 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' Part 2