Kinolights, a content community, has unveiled integrated content rankings for the last week of December.
No. 1: Squid Game 2
“Squid Game 2,” which premiered on December 26, took first place in the weekly integrated content chart.
This second season, which returns after three years, has been eagerly awaited by fans. It centers on the intense rivalry between Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) and Front Man (Lee Byung-hun), beloved characters in the first season, and the resumption of the deadly games. The suspenseful story of Gi-hun seeking revenge and joining the game captivated viewers.
“Squid Game 2” took the world by storm, taking the number one spot on Netflix’s global Top 10 chart. The series reached the top of the charts in 93 countries, including the United States, France, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong and Turkey, signaling a global success.
However, although the show has garnered enormous attention, reactions among viewers and critics have been mixed. Some fans expressed disappointment, saying it wasn’t as engaging as the first season, criticizing the large number of characters which made the plot confusing. On the other hand, some viewers praised the expanded storylines, with the growing conflict between Frontman and Gi-hun making it more exciting.
No. 2: Harbin
In second place in the ranking is “Harbin”, a big-budget film released on December 24. The film, set in 1909, portrays a thrilling chase between individuals heading to Harbin for a singular purpose and those who pursue them. Lead actor Hyun Bin also praised the film, saying it is a work he will show to his son.
Within five days of its release, Harbin surpassed 2 million viewers, becoming a box office success. Its rapid growth is comparable to that of “Avatar: The Way of Water.”
#3: The story of Lady Ok
Third place was taken by JTBC drama “The Tale of Lady Ok.” The story revolves around Ok Taeyeong (Im Ji-yeon), who creates a false identity and marries to survive in a high-stakes game of deception, with a life-threatening survival plot involving Yein (Choo Yeong-woo ). The drama achieved its highest viewership rating of 9.4% in episode 8, leaving fans curious as to whether it will manage to break the 10% barrier in future episodes.
However, the series also faced harsh criticism due to alleged “forced LGBTQ+ plots.”
No. 4: Light shop
In fourth place is the Disney+ original series “Light Shop,” which revolves around mysterious events that happen in a unique lighting store. Combining mystery and suspense, it draws viewers into its eerie atmosphere and takes them by storm.
Additionally, the post-credits scene hints at a possible connection to the “Moving” series, expanding the “Kang Full” universe, sparking further interest.
#5: The Fiery Priest 2
SBS drama “The Fiery Priest 2” takes fifth place. The sequel to the 2019 drama follows Kim Hae-il (Kim Nam-gil), a priest investigating a drug case in Busan. The series ended with a high rating of 12.6%, ending on a strong note and building a devoted fan base. The sequel continues with sequences full of action and humor, focusing on Kim Hae-il’s passionate character.
However, there were some disappointed with the way the second season progressed, pointing out unrealistic developments and dark comedy.
Other notable titles include Coupang Play’s original series “Family Plan” in #6, followed by “When the Phone Rings,” “Home Alone,” “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” and “Face hidden” by MBC, which ranked 7th. 10th.
