Lee Joon-Gi sent out a thank you message to the fans after the total views of SBS's "Scarlet Heart: Ryeo" reached 1 billion on China's top online video streaming service Youku. In the historical drama, the 34-year-old star portrays the aloof and reserved 4th prince, Wang So, who is known for his perceptive thinking and cruelty.
On Sept. 21, Wednesday, Lee took to Instagram to thank fans for supporting SBS's "Scarlet Heart: Ryeo." He also posted a still image of himself from the 20-episode historical drama, along with a Chinese poster of his character.
The "Scholar Who Walks the Night" actor has been acclaimed for his acting in the SBS drama. Currently, Lee tops the list of the most searched Korean actor in Sina Weibo, a Chinese microblogging site proportionate to Twitter, Hankyung reported.
Helmed by program director Kim Kyu-Tae, "Scarlet Heart: Ryeo" follows a 21st century woman, Go Ha-Jin (IU), who got transported back in time to the Goryeo Dynasty (918 CE). There, she awakens in the body of a 16-year-old noble lady, Hae Soo, and got trapped in the conflicts and struggles between the royal princes of the ruling family.
"Scarlet Heart: Ryeo," which premiered on Aug. 29, has been experiencing low viewership ratings. As early as the fourth episode, decrease in viewers was noticed, which apparently continued through its ninth episode.
In spite of being behind in viewership ratings, "Scarlet Heart: Ryeo" was crowned as the most influential television show for the first week of September. It took the first place with a record of 294.3 total points, beating KBS 2TV's "Moonlight Drawn By Clouds" and MBC's "Infinite Challenge," according to CJ E&M, as cited by The Kpop Herald.
In the midst of a V-live session on Aug. 16, Lee expressed his desire for "Scarlet Heart: Ryeo" to get as much popularity as SBS's "Doctors." He added, "We worked hard for six months. I hope viewers will be able to recognize our hard work and passion."
"Scarlet Heart: Ryeo" simultaneously airs on Japan's KNTV, Mango TV and Youku in China and ONE TV Asia in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Check out the historical drama below: