Despite riding global success with Netflix’s animated film K-Pop: Demon Hunters (hereafter KDH), actor Ahn Hyo-seop isn’t matching that momentum on television.
Episode 7 of SBS’s Wednesday–Thursday drama Oneuldo Maejin Haetseumnida (hereafter 'Omaejin'), which aired on May 13, featured a steamy kiss as leads Matthew Lee (played by Ahn Hyo-seop) and Dam Ye-jin (played by Chae Won-bin) confirmed their feelings for each other.
However, despite the romantic development, Nielsen Korea reported on May 14 that the episode posted a nationwide rating of 2.5%, a new series low.
The broadcast centered on the pair’s on-edge emotions. After a misunderstanding sparked by a surprise kiss, their relationship accelerated during a village sports day. During the 'Speak With Your Body' game, Matthew stunned everyone by blurting, "I like your lips," and he carefully looked after Dam Ye-jin when she injured her ankle.
In the final act, when Dam Ye-jin asked, "Why are you so good to me?", Matthew responded with a heartfelt confession and a kiss. Taken by surprise, she kissed him back, officially kicking off their romance.
Right after the broadcast, online communities and social media reacted with mixed comments such as "The ratings keep dropping," "The leads’ chemistry isn’t as strong as expected," and "I’m not curious about the next episode."
Meanwhile, 'Omaejin' airs every Wednesday and Thursday at 9 p.m.