Did IU Lose Ground? ‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’ Creates Less Hype Compared to Kim Soo Hyun’s ‘Queen of Tears’

Did IU Lose Ground? ‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’ Creates Less Hype Compared to Kim Soo Hyun’s ‘Queen of Tears’

Mixed Reception for Netflix’s *When Life Gives You Tangerines*

Despite being highly anticipated, Netflix’s new series When Life Gives You Tangerines is generating less excitement than Queen of Tears, starring Kim Soo Hyun, according to recent analytics.

Search Data Comparison

From March 9 to March 15, just a week after its premiere, the search index for *When Life Gives You Tangerines* peaked at 29. In contrast, *Queen of Tears*, which was released in March 2024, achieved a higher search index of 42 in its opening week. This number is particularly noteworthy as it establishes a baseline for comparison against future interest levels, with the peak activity for *Queen of Tears* set at 100 during its ninth week, from April 28 to May 4, 2024.

Comparative Performance

Even Netflix’s 2023 drama, *Mask Girl*, outshined both series, garnering a debut index of 44—indicating stronger initial buzz than either title.

A Look at the Series’ Narrative

*When Life Gives You Tangerines* follows the compelling journey of Ae-sun (played by IU) and Gwan-sik (portrayed by Park Bo-gum), unfolding from the 1960s in Jeju to contemporary Seoul in 2025. Their story navigates the challenges of love and life across four seasons, emphasizing resilience against adversity.

When Life Gives You Tangerines Sets for a Heartbreaking Finale

Ae-sun’s Character Insight

In her role, IU embodies Ae-sun, a character born into poverty who confronts the difficulties of life with an indomitable spirit. Despite societal pressures, she strives to carve out her own fate. Reflecting on her character, IU remarked, “She’s a girl full of dreams and everything. Though she doesn’t have much, her heart is overflowing.” She continues, expressing gratitude for Gwan-sik’s support, noting, “She’s lucky to meet someone like Gwan-sik.”

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Recent Controversies Surrounding Kim Soo Hyun

Simultaneously, Kim Soo Hyun, IU’s close friend, has faced scrutiny due to resurfacing dating rumors. Reports allege that he was romantically involved with the late Kim Sae Ron since 2015, when she was still a minor, raising serious grooming allegations. Although Kim Soo Hyun initially refuted these claims, persistent photo leaks and public pressure prompted him to release a statement on March 14, clarifying that any relationship had occurred only after Kim Sae Ron reached adulthood.

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