Actors Lee Jong Suk, 26, and Kim Woo Bin, 27, are battling head to head for the number one TV drama in an incredibly close ratings race. The fourth episode of MBC's "W" drew monster viewership last July 28, Thursday, surpassing most programs in nationwide ratings.
The July 28 telecast of MBC's "W," which showed how Oh Yeon-Joo (Han Hyo-Joo) goes back and forth between reality and the webtoon world, accumulated a national TV rating of 14.3 percent, according to AGB Nielsen Media Research. The number was good enough to rank "W" as the fourth most-watched TV drama.
The 16-episode fantasy drama's constant increase in viewership ratings is attributed to its unique meta-fiction theme, solid content, and ensemble cast members. Helmed by PD Jung Dae Yoon, "W" follows the one of a kind love story between a young chaebol, Kang Chul (Lee), who is the protagonist of the webtoon universe of "W" and Oh Yeon Joon (Han), a doctor who lives in the real world.
On the other hand, Kim's "Uncontrollably Fond's" latest episode recorded a 10.1 percent viewership rating, which is a 0.6 increase from the previous episode. It marks the first time "Uncontrollably Fond" has failed to score double-digit viewership since it premiered on July 6.
"Uncontrollably Fond" follows the love story between a haughty top Hallyu star, Shin Joon Young (Kim) and a shameless documentary producer, No Eul (Bae Suzy). The two were apparently couple who got separated during their teenage years, but meet again later in life.
Kim and Lee, who previously starred in "School 2013," is said to be known as best friends off-screen. During "Uncontrollably Fond's" press conference on June 4, Kim talked about the reported competition with his best friend.
"I keep in touch with Lee Jong Suk and it is an honor to compete with him," Soompi quoted Kim as saying. "It's not every day that this happens, so we're supporting each other."
Check out "W's" latest episode below: