Things are looking up for MBC's new drama "W" that stars the model and actor Lee Jong Suk. Viewership ratings for the said drama's third episode have even surpassed that of Kim Woo Bin's drama "Uncontrollably Fond."
MBC's new suspense and romantic comedy drama have captured the interest of many viewers with its unique storyline and good-looking cast. "W" aired its first episode on Wednesday, July 20 and has posted increasing viewership ratings, according to All KPop. The drama's episode one debuted with a viewership rating of 8.6 percent, while its second episode posted ratings of 9.5 percent.
However, its third episode that aired on July 27 has garnered ratings of 12.9 percent. If compared against KBS2's "Uncontrollably Fond," Lee's "W" has topped Kim's drama. The KBS2 show's seventh episode that aired on the same day as the MBC drama only posted a viewership share of 8.6 percent, as stated in the same report.
Anticipation for Kim's drama has been high. Previous reports have indicated that the KBS2 drama followed the same production and filming strategy that the hit "Descendants of the Sun" show have previously adapted. Episodes for "Uncontrollably Fond" were all pre-filmed and it is currently shown in China at almost the same time as its South Korean episode release.
However, it appears that MBC's "W" has been gaining the attention of many Korean drama fans. It features the story of Lee's Kang Chul, a media billionaire and former Olympic gold medalist who exists as a character in a webtoon. The webtoon creator's daughter Oh Yeon Jo portrayed by Han Hyo Joo mysteriously finds herself drawn into the webtoon to save Lee's character.
When Han was asked during the drama's press conference held on July 18, about the expected viewership rating war between "W" and "Uncontrollably Fond," the actress stated that she would rather focus on doing a good job for the MBC drama, Korea Herald reported. She also commented on the cast and crew's priority to further develop themselves while filming "W" and provide a great show for the viewers.
Both "Uncontrollably Fond" and "W" airs at the same time on Wednesdays and Thursdays on KBS2 and MBC, respectively.
Watch a trailer for "W" below: