From No. 2 to No. 1 Overnight—This Korean Drama Just Took Over Netflix

A drama that debuted at No. 2 on Netflix Korea’s Top 10 Series Today chart has quickly surged to No. 1, cementing its status as a breakout hit.

The series in question is Tastefully Yours, ENA’s latest drama starring Kang Ha-neul and Go Min-si. Set in Jeonju, the show is gaining traction through word-of-mouth thanks to its emotional depth, stunning food cinematography, and powerful performances.

Tastefully Yours follows the story of a chaebol heir and a local one-table chef whose worlds collide over cooking. Rather than relying on typical romance tropes, the drama focuses on subtle emotional shifts, making it easy for viewers to get immersed. Tensions rise through recipe battles and family business rivalries, keeping the plot tight and compelling.

But this drama isn’t just about love and conflict. It leans heavily into the unique ambiance of Jeonju—highlighting hanok village alleyways, bustling markets, and cozy old restaurants. These elements give the show a sense of emotional realism and regional charm that draws viewers in.

Food is a key narrative device. Local ingredients and Jeonju specialties take center stage, with each dish reflecting the characters' inner feelings or backstories. These moments go beyond eye candy—they offer healing and connection, leaving a warm aftertaste for the audience.

The cast brings the story to life with nuanced performances. Kang Ha-neul, who stars in Squid Game Season 2 and 3, and Go Min-si, who stars in Sweet Home, deliver layered portrayals of their characters' emotional evolution. Notably, Go Min-si and Kim Shin-rok reunite after Sweet Home Season 2, while Yoo Su-bin's supporting role reunites him with Weak Hero Class 1 director Park Dan-hee.

Though early TV ratings were modest, the drama’s performance on OTT turned everything around. After landing at No. 2 on Netflix Korea, Tastefully Yours quickly rose to No. 1, and is now gaining traction in global rankings as well—proving both its high production quality and international appeal.

With stylish visuals, thoughtful mise-en-scène, well-balanced scripts, and multidimensional characters, Tastefully Yours transcends the boundaries of standard romance. It combines trendy storytelling with emotional warmth, appealing to a broad audience. The use of Jeonju’s cultural richness and Korean cuisine grounds the drama in local flavor, offering something refreshingly unique for international viewers too.

As of 10:00 AM on May 16, the top 3 Netflix Korea series are:

1) Tastefully Yours

2) Devil's Plan: Death Room

3) Adventure By Accident (Around the World in Time) Season 4

4) Resident Playbook

5) Heavenly Ever After

6) The Haunted Palace

7) Weak Class Hero 2

8) Whenever Possible

9) When Life Gives You Tangerines

10) Teachers 2

If its current momentum continues, Tastefully Yours could go beyond being a hit drama—it might just set a new standard for Korean storytelling in the global streaming era.

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