K-drama 'Doctor X' (닥터X), starring Kim Jiwon (김지원), is currently a global sensation on Netflix. Amidst its worldwide popularity, the show is simultaneously making headlines for its portrayal of the 5.18 Democratic Uprising (5·18 민주화운동), which has sparked both a petition to halt its broadcast and a 'fearless' statement from the production team.
K-drama 'Doctor X' is once again proving the global influence of Korean content, drawing immense worldwide popularity on Netflix.
Netflix Tudum, cineplay.co.kr국내 6회 시청률 19.5%
The popularity of 'Doctor X' is also soaring within Korea. According to Nielsen Korea, episode 6 of 'Doctor X' recorded a 19.5% viewership rating based on national households. Kim Jiwon's starring role in 'Doctor X' achieved an 18.5% rating, spearheading a golden age for the 'female dark hero' genre. (Related article: Kim Jiwon 18.5%, Kim Yoojung 9.0%: The Golden Age of K-Drama 'Female Dark Heroes')
theqoo.net, kagit.krThe Courageous Portrayal of '5.18': Domestic and International Reactions?
Despite this success, 'Doctor X' has faced a petition to halt its broadcast from some viewers due to its decision to feature the 5.18 Democratic Uprising as a central theme in the drama. However, the production team has remained undeterred, expressing a strong commitment to upholding the message of their content.
“We have no fear.”
— 'Doctor X' CP (Chief Producer)
'닥터X' CP — theqoo.net
On the Korean online community TheQoo (더쿠), there has been overwhelming support for the production team's conviction and the drama's content. One netizen expressed strong displeasure regarding the petition to halt the broadcast, stating, “Why is covering 5.18 a petition to stop the show?? Seriously, these crazy people are running wild because we let them.” Another netizen applauded the production team's courage, commenting, “No fear👏👏👏👏👏”
Beyond mere box office success, 'Doctor X' is making a global mark with K-drama's artistic soft power through its bold attempt to deliver a significant social message.
