Celebrity Search: Korean Celebrities With Blood Type B
Find out all the Korean celebrities with Blood Type B!
Song, Kpopmap Editor < 1 min to read ·
Published : Feb 21, 2023
· Updated : Aug 30, 2023
ELLE Korea
Do you know that in Korea, many people would ask you about your blood type as an icebreaker? There is a saying that certain blood types show different personality traits and it is rather interesting to learn more about it.
Original source : Naver Webtoon / Park DongSun
Those with blood type B are said to have a positive mindset, be creative and also be an interesting person. Do take note that this is just something Koreans say for fun and it should be taken with a light heart!
Find out which Korean Celebrities have blood type B.
Kim HyeYoon's Consistency And Improvements As An Actress Shows Why She'll Become One Of The Most Trending Names With "Lovely Runner"
"Lovely Runner" continues to captivate audiences with the help of its touching storyline and amazing main leads which includes the lovely Kim HyeYoon.
Dyllan Mykel, Kpopmap Editor 6 min to read ·
Published : Apr 27, 2024
sidusHQ
Despite cherry blossom season coming to a close, audiences everywhere can still feel that spring-like bliss through the web novel based K-Drama, "Lovely Runner". Nearing its halfway mark, the show has become an undeniable source of serotonin to viewers across the globe. It's shaping up to be the perfect pick-me-up for the start of the week.
The drama is led by Byeon WooSeok and Kim HyeYoon, with N.Flying's Lee SeungHyub and Song GeonHee. It follows the story of Ryu SeonJae (Byeon WooSeok), a dearly beloved celebrity who has mesmerized since his debut. He meets Im Sol (Kim HyeYoon), his dedicated supporter who was comforted and healed through SeonJae's music. After something tragic happens to Ryu SeonJae, Im Sol finds herself thrust back 15 years in the past where she meets SeonJae's 19-year-old self as a fellow schoolmate. She makes every effort to alter the future and ultimately save him from a tragic fate.
Swooning story of romance aside, it tackles real life issues and showcases amazing chemistry between characters, all with a cast who are able to masterfully pilot their role to perfection. And as one looks directly at Kim HyeYoon, you're able to see an actress who remains at the top of her game and only seems to improve as her career progresses forward. She's been a delight to watch, making everyone feel a swarm of butterflies appear in their chest.
Considering the success of "Lovely Runner" so far, the actress is set to top the search engines and trend on social media even after the finale episode.
A Welcomed Comeback
tvN
Prior to the premiere of "Lovely Runner", Kim HyeYoon was absent from the K-Drama space for nearly three years. But now that she's returned to television screens, fans can't help but express their joy all across social media far and wide. Audiences are glad to once again witness Kim HyeYoon's naturally bright demeanor that also reveals itself through her portrayal of Im Sol. Moving back and forth between past and present, the actress shows that she's a master at her craft, a quality that has been worked on and refined since her humble debut.
The time she's spent away from the limelight certainly did not take away from her skills whatsoever, as she's still extremely skilled while remaining a much needed source of sunshine behind the scenes. Her ability to switch between the two modes speaks to her ability as an actress and that even a small break cannot deter her from putting on the best performance possible, immersing fans into yet another award-winning hit.
tvN
Her comeback with Im Sol seemed like the perfect move, as the character truly feels like an extension of Kim HyeYoon's sunshine-like persona herself. However, she's also able to make audiences feel crushingly sad heartache, a fear of losing someoen you love, and a hesitancy that would prevent anyone from acting upon their heart. Kim HyeYoon makes you sympathize for her character, while also hoping she doesn't lose her dazzling shine.
A Storied Career That Elevated Her Status As An Actress
Kim HyeYoon made her official debut through "Samsaengi" in 2013 and in the following year, gained attention for her appearance in "Bad Guys". And while some might think this is where the actress truly hits the ground running and she decides to shift her focus towards academics, attending the prestigious Konkuk University. While attending school, she was able to procure numerous guest roles in widely recognized dramas. Some of these series include "Doctors", "The Legend Of The Blue Sea", "Goblin", and "Let's Eat Season 3". While she participated in smaller roles, audiences quickly became accustomed to seeing Kim HyeYoon on the screen, excited for the moment she'll receive her big break.
After finally finishing her schooling, Kim HyeYoon was ready to audition for bigger roles. The first role that she landed in pursuing this endeavor was as Kang YeSeo in the highly acclaimed "Sky Castle".
Unlike the bright and bubbly Kim HyeYoon that we're so accustomed to, Kang YeSeo's academic excellence served as a double-edged sword which became even harsher under the pressure of her highly critical parents and pressure to achieve perfection. "Sky Castle" showed the dark side of the education system and how many students are pushed to the point of exhaustion in order to enter one of the most prestigious universities in South Korea.
Kpopmap
"Sky Castle" served as one of Kim HyeYoon's most prominent stepping points, and still manages to retain its popularity today. Netizens continue to show "Sky Castle" favorably interest even in the past year when countless more series have premiered to raving success. Shortly afterwards, she was able to land yet another memorable main role in "Extraordinary You" (2018), which featured a cast of then rising stars in RoWoon, Lee JaeWook, Lee NaEun, Kim YoungDae, Jung GunJoo, and Lee TaeRi. Kim HyeYoon's acting was spectacular throughout the series. Then there was her chemistry with RoWoon that created waves of butterflies all throughout your stomach.
Even in the past year, it continues to remain a dearly beloved series among the K-Drama community worldwide as they continue to show it interest until today.
Kpopmap
Kim HyeYoon would then continue proving herself through "Secret Royal Inspector & Joy" (2021) and "Snowdrop" (2021). Then before briefly stepping away from the spotlight, she made an appearance in "Cleaning Up" in 2022. These iconic K-Dramas continued to raise the bar of what audiences could expect out of Kim HyeYoon's acting. There was no doubt in anyone's mind that she was a marvelous talent, capable of taking on a myriad of different roles.
Current Ratings Of "Lovely Runner"
Nielsen Korea
In just three weeks, "Lovely Runner" was able to earn 3.946% ratings for its most recent episode, according to Nielsen Korea. Compared to the 3.176% of its first episode, the slow and steady increase showcases the drama's potential to take off even further. And part of the drama's success can be owed to Kim HyeYoon's acting prowess. Watching her pilot Im Sol as she navigates her relationship with Ryu SeonJae has offered a number of different experiences. Witnessing Kim HyeYoon's acting prowess acts as a form of healing, a beacon of hope, and a revitalizing vitamin that can be taken at any moment.
Kpopmap
The moment "Lovely Runner" premiered, things started taking off once for the actress, as she was mentioned all across the internet. This has only increased with every passing episode. In addition, netizens have positively welcomed her back as she delivers another award-winning performance.
Kpopmap
While both data and numbers can serve as one representation of Kim HyeYoon's current influence, but it is the kind and encouraging words that truly embody the hearts of fans. Found all across social media and forum sites are cheers from the actress' supportive fans that just won't stop talking about her endless talent.
Considering her unending perseverance, the success of her previous roles, and how well she's doing through "Lovely Runner" today, it's almost certain that Kim HyeYoon will continue to trend on search engines and social media. And once award season comes around, she's sure to be recognized for her amazing work.
Are you watching "Lovely Runner"? How do you like Kim HyeYoon's acting so far?
Overseas Fans Name Their Top 5 K-Dramas Of 2023 And Why "Squid Game" Continues To Dominate The List
Check out the top 5 favorite Korean dramas chosen by overseas fans from over 26 countries and how "Squid Game" continues to remain at the top.
Dyllan Mykel, Kpopmap Editor 7 min to read ·
Published : Apr 22, 2024
Netflix Korea
The results for the 2024 Overseas Hallyu Survey has been released, naming the most beloved K-Dramas of viewers from across the globe. The top 5 series consists of "Squid Game", "The Glory", "King The Land", "Crash Landing On You", and "Taxi Driver", in that order. For the third time since its release, "Squid Game" continues to dominate, earning mass-attention from audiences worldwide.
Conducted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Overseas Hallyu Survey aims to compile the data on the impact of the Hallyu wave. With a sample size of 25,000 people from over 26 countries, the survey tries it best to show an accurate representation of what types of K-Content is being consumed in different countries.
While many more amazing series have popped up over the years, "Squid Game" is still named as one of the most enjoyed K-Dramas by 9.0% of survey participants. While they're not all the same genre, they do have some similarities, and some clear cut reasons why "Squid Game" remains at the top.
Top Ratings And Streams
Looking at the list across the board, these series cover a variety of different themes. This includes everything from lighthearted romantic comedy to suspenseful thriller and heart-racing action. As vastly different as they might be, they share a similarity in receiving top ratings and streams.
At their highest ratings, "Crash Landing On You" received 21.7%, "King The Land" ended on 13.8%, and "Taxi Driver" received 16% for season 1 and 21% for season 2 respectively. When it comes to the Netflix-produced shows of "Squid Game" and "The Glory", rather than percentage ratings, there are hours viewed. At its peak and according to FlixPatrol, "The Glory" reached an astonishing 124,460,000 hours viewed. But this seems pale in comparison to the 571,760,000 of "Squid Game".
Earlier, we mentioned that Squid Game was picked by 9.0% of survey respondents. The rest are as follows: "The Glory" (3.4%), "King The Land" (2.6), "Crash Landing On You" (2.2), and "Taxi Driver" (1.6). While the rest of these series are amazing in their own right, the difference between "Squid Game" still remains quite large, even three years after its release.
Translated by Kpopmap.com
While these numbers don't tell the whole story, they portray these shows' mass appeal and how they naturally had the entire globe wrapped around their finger, eagerly moving from episode to episode. With a majority of these shows made available through Netflix, and "Taxi Driver" as the lone Amazon Prime Video representative, it was easy for individuals around the globe to become hooked and name them as their top series of 2023.
More Than Just A K-Drama
Netflix Korea
Now, we have a general idea of how well these series have done, according to stats. And while statistics might be a clear representation of these K-Dramas' success, when breaking things down, it becomes more than just the numbers. And in turn, these shows become more than just a regular, old K-Drama. In the case of "Squid Game", "The Glory", and "Taxi Driver", they certainly were not your typical K-Dramas that ended with a couple riding into the sunset towards their happily-ever-after. Instead, they erred more on the intensity of the world, how some actions are simply unforgivable, and the sheer ruthlessness of certain individuals. They introduced global audiences to a grittier, less explored side of K-Dramas that left a lasting impression on millions.
Looking over at "Crash Landing On You" and "King The Land", these two offered a totally different experience for viewers, acting as quintessential examples for your tried and true K-Drama. They had layers of depth and character development, while remaining lighthearted enough for you to witness a swoon-worthy romance, made you smile in unending laughter, and kept audiences coming back every single week.
JTBC
Millions of individuals raved about these series' incredible success and how they managed to change the landscape of the K-Dramas we see today. And aside from the feel good happy endings and the idea that love is real from "Crash Landing On You" and "King The Land", they approached a myriad of real-life topics that are generally harder to talk about for any one person. "Squid Game" tackled economic disparity, "The Glory" depicted the lasting effects of bullying, and "Taxi Driver" portrayed the idea that the less fortunate can receive their due justice.
It's in these life lessons, combined with the pure entertainment factors, that make these shows so worth it.
The Lasting Effect Of "Squid Game"
Netflix
It's no secret that Netflix's "Squid Game" became a world-renowned hit. According to data collected by Netflix, as of April 14th, 2024, "Squid Game" has received a approximately 265,200,000 total views, earning it the top spot of Netflix's Most Popular TV (Non-English) list. During its initial year of release, it became an international craze, with millions flocking to filming locations of the series, creating a boon in the tourism industry. Even the official VISIT SEOUL website curated a list of "Squid Game" filming locations that travelers could visit in Seoul.
Additionally, a pop-up playground was previously set up at Itaewon station, which ran from September 17th, 2021 until September 26th, 2021.
Netflix Korea
Many would think that the first year of global success aside, and with the amount of incredible K-Dramas that have graced our screens since, surely there would have been at least one to overtake the no. 1 spot from "Squid Game". However, going from 21.2% to 11.3%, and now 9.0% shows just how much presence the Netflix series continues to retain.
From mentions & reach to netizen sentiment, "Squid Game" remained truly relevant within such a fast-paced and ever-changing entertainment world. And while there are dips here and there, the sentiment around "Squid Game" is ultimately positive, a consensus shared by a large portion of survey respondents and the world. Although the drama's mentions and reach are on a downwards trend, it has yet to fall off completely, showing that audiences still have their tabs open to search more about "Squid Game".
Kpopmap
Kpopmap
Looking at it even deeper, there's many reasons for that.
The 'Wow' Factor
Entertainment-wise, "Squid Game" is truly a special title. As the characters participate in a series of missions in an attempt to earn a life-changing monetary prize, audiences await with bated breathe to see just who will make it out alive. Taking simple Korean games and transforming them to psychologically frightening tasks blows everything out of proportion, but creates such an inescapable magnetic pull that you can't help but be dragged along by its explosive plot. This 'wow' factor certainly contributed to the overall success of "Squid Game" and how it became such a loved hit for three years in a row.
Spinoffs And Reimagined For Real Life
Even with its immense virality and worldwide influence, many probably could not foresee that it would incite others into action to replicate the hit series and create a real-life "Squid Game". One of the most notable attempts was done by popular YouTuber, Mr. Beast. Although the contestants do not carry a sense of desperation to succeed like the original characters nor is blood actually shed, the spirit of "Squid Game" is still present. This 26 minute video by the YouTuber now sits at around 600M views.
Then, just last year in 2023, Netflix tapped into the success of "Squid Game" and created "Squid Game: The Challenge". This was the official real-life rendition of the iconic series. While this was a bit more laidback like Mr. Beast's version, tensions were a little higher as the streaming giant tried its best to stay as true to the K-Drama as possible.
Outside of these, along with many other attempts to bring "Squid Game" to life, the iconic tracksuits, guard outfits, and more reached store shelves everywhere. Then when Halloween came around the corner, millions walked along the street dressed from head to toe in "Squid Game" attire, showing their enjoyment and outright affection for the show.
"Squid Game" Moving Forward
Considering the news about "Squid Game 2" and how it's going to drop sometime this year, it seems the craze is far from over. Rather, it will most likely receive a second wind, dominating watchlists and search engines worldwide. And even then, depending on whether or not the response for season 2 is similar or surpasses expectations, there could even be a chance that the "Squid Game" universe is expanded even further. This would pave the way for even more exploration into the "Squid Game" narrative and an expansion of an already complex story. This time next year, "Squid Game 2" could be like its predecessor and be chosen as the top K-Drama from 21.2% of survey respondents, or more.
What do you think of the results for the 2024 Overseas Hallyu Survey? Have you gone back to rewatch "Squid Game" in the past year?
Top 19 MBC Dramas With The Highest Ratings Since 2020 (2024 Update)
Check out which MBC dramas have the highest ratings in the history of the channel from 2020 to 2024!
Dyllan Mykel, Kpopmap Editor 7 min to read ·
Published : Apr 22, 2024
MBC
Throughout the world of K-Dramas, various broadcasting stations bring numerous series to the home of fans all across the globe. One of these stations is the illustrious MBC. MBC is one of the most popular broadcasting channels, with its K-Dramas consistently placing in the best ratings list. The channel continues to deliver high-quality productions appealing to fans in South Korea and abroad. As such, MBC drama ratings rise to the very top, with many reaching record highs.
Here are the top MBC Dramas with the highest ratings since 2020!
1. "Knight Flower" - 18.4%
Starring Lee Hanee and Lee JongWon, the historical drama "Knight Flower" starred high in ratings and quickly reached high ratings. The drama gained even more popularity in its last weeks and reached the ratings of 18.4% with its final episode. In 2024, the drama broke the previous records held by "The Red Sleeve". The drama is available on Viki, Kocowa, Apple TV, and Prime Video.
Among historical K-Dramas, "The Red Sleeve" was phenomenally made, filled with moments of romance and yearning that cannot be easily forgotten. Due to its massive success, it gained 17.4% ratings, making it the highest rated series among MBC K-Dramas from 2020 to 2023. Luckily for fans new and old, the K-Drama is available to watch on Rakuten Viki.
"Big Mouth" made big waves during its initial run. The chemistry between Lee JongSuk and Girls' Generation's YoonA was magnificent, and combined with a compelling storyline, it became an immediate hit, reaching 13.7% ratings. The drama can be watched via streaming site Hulu.
4. "My Dearest (part 1 & 2)" - 12.9%
MBC
Starring NamKoong Min and Ahn EunJin, "My Dearest" gained massive success and tugged on the heartstrings of all its viewers with a total of 21 episodes. Reaching its highest rating of 12.9% with the final episodes, it puts the series as one of the most watched of MBC. "My Dearest" is currently available on Rakuten Viki and Kocowa.
5. "Wonderful World" - 11.4%
MBC
"Wonderful World" (2024) is a revenge and thriller drama starring Kim NamJoo and ASTRO's Cha EunWoo. The drama went viral on social media and the mysterious story caught attention. The drama peaked at 11.4% with its 9th, 11th, and 13th episodes. It started at 5.3%.
6. "Chief Detective 1958" - 10.1%
MBC
The retro crime drama "Chief Detective 1958" starring Lee JeHoon, Lee DongHwi, Choi WooSung, Yoon HyunSoo, and Seo EunSoo started with 10.1%. The drama started after "Wonderful World" and garnered a lot of attention to be able to start with such high ratings.
Also starring NamKoong Min, "The Veil" kept audiences at the edge of their seats with its various twists and turns. Its captivating suspense allowed the drama to reach its highest ratings of 9.8%, landing it at number four among MBC dramas. "The Veil" is available to watch via Rakuten Viki or Kocowa.
8. "The Story of Park's Marriage Contract" - 9.6%
MBC
"The Story of Park's Marriage Contract" based on webtoon gained a lot of popularity. Bae InHyuk and Lee SeYoung's chemistry was amazing and the story was full of mystery so the drama gained a lot of viewers. The drama started at 5.6% and reached the highest rating of 9.6%.
This MBC drama depicted the hard working performance of the National Tax Service. Featuring a cast with Yim SiWan, Go AhSung, Son HyunJoo, and much more, "Tracer" reached its highest rating at 9.0%, earning it the fifth spot among MBC dramas so far. "Tracer" is available on Rakuten Viki, Kocowa, and Wavve.
"The Golden Spoon" is a webtoon-based drama that followed poor, yet studious Lee SeungCheon (BTOB's SungJae) and chaebol son Hwang TaeYong (Lee JongWon) as they switched lives during adolescence and adulthood. The drama explored the stark differences between the extremely rich and those living in poverty. While there were moments of crushing heartache, there were scenes of uplifting hope that lit up all the dark spaces in your heart. "The Golden Spoon" earned its highest ratings at 7.8% and is available on Disney+ and Hulu.
While this webtoon-based drama had various moments of uplifting comedy, it also did an excellent job at exploring hard-hitting topics. This involved aspects of mental health, life after death and those left behind, as well as the will to live on. At its highest peak, "Tomorrow" earned 7.6% in ratings. This MBC K-Drama is available on streaming platform, Netflix.
Starring the iconic actor, So JiSub, "Doctor Lawyer" is a fusion of medical and law, providing the best of both worlds. As Han YiHan (So JiSub) searched for the truth, viewers could not help but remain by his side. With the help of its loyal viewers, the MBC drama reached its highest ratings of 7.2%, placing it at eighth on this list. "Doctor Lawyer" is currently available on Disney+ and Hulu.
Adapted from the winning script from MBC's 2018 drama writing contest, "Kkondae Intern" follows the reversal of roles between Ka YeolChan (Park HaeJin) and Lee ManSik (Kim EungSoo). The office comedy provided viewers a reason to smile and laugh, week after week, and reached its highest ratings of 7.1%. "Kkondae Intern" is available to watch via Rakuten Viki and Kocowa.
A story of strangers to lovers, Kim HaeKyung (Song SeungHeon) and Woo DoHee (Seo JiHye) unexpectedly meet on Jeju Island. Bonding over their respective heartaches and love of food, they remain in contact and gradually fall for one another. "Dinner Mate" earned its highest ratings at 6.1% and is available to watch via streaming sites iQIYI and Prime Video.
"Find Me In Your Memory" is a moving story between Lee JungHoon (Kim DongWook) and Yeo HaJin (Mun KaYoung). While the drama had its fair share of romance, it also offered moments of healing that aided broken souls everywhere. The drama earned its highest ratings at 5.4%, landing at eleventh among MBC K-Dramas. It is available to watch via Rakuten Viki and Kocowa.
"The Forbidden Marriage" certainly had it all: a budding romance, a swoon-worthy second lead, a love triangle that broke your heart, and so much more. Audiences certainly agreed, sticking with the drama for every new episode, helping it reach its peak at 4.9% ratings. "The Forbidden Marriage" is available to watch on Prime Video, Rakuten Viki, and Kocowa.
17. "Kokdu: Season Of Deity" - 4.8%
MBC
"Kokdu: Season Of Deity" was filled with quirky characters, electrifying chemistry, and a romance that withstood the test of time. Switching between historical and modern, "Kokdu: Season Of Deity" had fans constantly coming back for more, earning 4.8% ratings. The MBC drama is made available to watch via Rakuten Viki and Wavve.
"When I Was Most Beautiful" is a heartbreaking love story featuring Oh YeJi (Im SooHyang) who is caught between brothers Seo Hwan (Ji Soo) and Seo Jin (Ha SeokJin). As they navigated feelings of love and jealousy, audiences remained glued to their seats, watching the story unfold. With the help of its dedicated viewers, the series earned 4.7% ratings, placing it at number fourteen among MBC K-Dramas. "When I Was Most Beautiful" is available to watch via Rakuten Viki and Kocowa.
19. "From Now On, Showtime!" - 4.6% & "The Game: Towards Zero" - 4.6%
MBC
Comedic with a touch of mystery, "From Now On, Showtime!" was able to captivate viewers with its lighthearted storyline and incredible lineup of actors. On the other hand, there was the more serious, thriller series "The Game: Towards Zero" which kept viewers shrouded in suspense. While two different genres, these series earned its highest ranking at 4.6%, tying at number fifteen among MBC K-Dramas.
Which of these MBC dramas is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
Comments