The Netflix series 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' is receiving an unprecedented response, setting the highest rating ever for Korean content on the global review platform IMDb.

As of April 3, the IMDb website showed that 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' holds a rating of 9.4, a 0.7-point increase from the 8.7 it recorded upon its release on March 7. The highest-rated episode is the final one (Episode 16), which received 9.8, while 12 out of 16 episodes have scored above 9.0.

This marks the highest rating ever recorded for a Korean production on IMDb.

Previously, the top-rated Korean titles were 'Kingdom Season 2' and 'Move to Heaven,' both with 8.5, respectively. 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' has significantly outperformed other major K-dramas, including 'The Glory' part 1 (7.6) and part 2 (8.1), 'Squid Game' Season 1 (8.0) and Season 2 (7.5), and 'The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call' (8.4).

Beyond its impressive ratings, the drama has consistently ranked high on Netflix’s global top charts, maintaining strong buzz and proving to be a massive hit.

The 16-episode series follows the lives of "rebellious yet charming" Ae Soon (played by IU & Moon So Ri) and "foolishly devoted" Gwan Sik (played by Park Bo Gum & Park Hae Joon) across four seasons.

Premiered on March 7, the drama concluded with the release of its final arc (Episodes 13–16) on March 28. Even after its finale, global audiences continue to shower it with praise, cementing its status as a new milestone for K-content.

'When Life Gives You Tangerines' captivated viewers with its sensory-rich direction and delicate emotional depth. The drama was penned by Im Sang Choon, known for 'Fight for My Way' and 'When the Camellia Blooms,' and directed by Kim Won Seok, the mastermind behind 'Misaeng' and 'My Mister,' ensuring top-tier quality.

The stunning mise-en-scène of Jeju Island further enhances the drama’s atmosphere. The ever-changing seasonal landscapes breathe life into the story, capturing Jeju’s unique charm and beauty.

The 1990s-inspired set design and props evoke a sense of nostalgia, resonating with viewers across generations. Director Kim Won Seok shared, “I wanted to break invisible barriers through a story that transcends age and gender.”

On top of the impeccable production team, the stellar cast of the drama also played a key role in the drama's success.

IU and Park Bo Gum brought depth to their roles as young Ae Soon and Gwan Sik, with IU delivering an exceptional dual performance as both Ae Soon and her daughter, Geum Myeong. Park Bo Gum, returning from military service, showcased a more mature and refined acting style.

Moon So Ri and Park Hae Joon, portraying the older versions of Ae Soon and Gwan Sik, beautifully conveyed the weight of time and life’s complexities with subtle yet powerful performances.

The unique release format, unveiling four episodes per week across four acts, also heightened immersion, allowing audiences to connect with the story deeply.

With its exceptional storytelling, breathtaking cinematography, and powerhouse performances, When Life Gives You Tangerines has set a new benchmark for Korean dramas on the global stage.

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