Why was Crash Landing on You such a huge hit? 5 reasons why Son Ye-jin and Hyun Bin’s Korean drama became a sensation

Mar 20 , 2020

Crash Landing on You is the second most-successful Korean drama ever – but what was the secret of its mass appeal? Photo: handout

Officially the second-highest-rated drama in Korean TV history, TVN’s Crash Landing on You follows the conventions of K-drama to conjure a satisfying story arc targeted at pleasing audiences – here’s how

Crash Landing on You broke records when its final episode peaked at a 24.1 per cent rating, clocking in an average 21.7 per cent overall viewership to beat what was formerly Korean TVN channel's highest-rated drama, Goblin, at 20.5 per cent. The drama is also officially the second highest-rated cable drama, next to 2018’s Sky Castle.

So what was the secret to its success? Below, we dissect five factors that made Crash Landing on You, and other popular K-dramas before it, such a massive hit.

1. Two hallyu stars who are a perfect match of age – and popularity

Son Ye-jin and Hyun Bin – now known as #BinJin by doting fans – are certified hallyu stars with immense popularity even before Crash Landing on You. Both actors are known for picking solid projects, and the fact they have previously starred in a movie together, The Negotiation in 2018, only solidified their team-up.

The pair’s in-sync acting, on-screen chemistry, plus, the undeniable fact that both are good-looking actors (and of the same age, too!), naturally piqued fan interest.

Notably, Full House in 2004, with K-pop sensation Rain and acclaimed drama actress Song Hye-kyo as leads, was one of the dramas responsible for bringing the K-drama wave to the fore.

Back in 2010, Hyun starred opposite Ha Ji-won, a multi-awarded actress known for her versatility in TV and movies, in Secret Garden, which gained commercial and critical recognition locally and internationally.