Ratings dropping right from the start
Premiering March 6th Shining initially posted a modest 2.1% viewership rating, offering a relatively stable start compared to previous JTBC Friday dramas. However, the numbers steadily declined with each episode, eventually dropping to 0.8%, marking the lowest rating in the history of the network’s Friday series.
Shining
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Repetitive melodrama draws criticism
Despite initial anticipations, Shining struggled to maintain audience engagement. Viewers criticized the drama repetitive narrative structurein particular the constant cycle of breakup, misunderstanding and reunion between the main characters.
The story follows Yeon Tae-seo and Mo Eun-a, who reunite after a decade apart, only to face recurring emotional conflicts. However, many viewers felt that these conflicts existed forced rather than organicmaking it difficult to stay invested in the characters’ journey.
As the plot progressed, the emotional depth expected from a romantic drama was overshadowed predictable storytelling and lack of character developmentultimately contributing to spectator abandonment.
The drunk driving scene triggers negative reactions
The controversy intensified in the second half of the series. Episodes 7 and 8 featured scenes where characters appeared to be driving after drinking, drawing criticism from viewers.
In one scene, Yeon Tae-seo drinks alcohol before getting behind the wheel, while another character, Bae Sung-chan, is shown driving early in the morning after a night of drinking. These scenes have been widely interpreted as depicting driving while intoxicated or with a hangover without consequences or clear warnings.
The issue quickly gained attention, leading to a formal complaint filed through Korea’s national petition system. Critics argued that the drama:
“I failed to clearly present drunk driving as a dangerous act, instead using it as a plot device for emotional tension.”
The production team responds
In response, the production team released a statement acknowledging the criticism:
“We humbly accept the concerns raised and will take extra care to prevent similar issues in the future.”
The matter is currently under review by the Korea Communications Standards Commission, which will determine whether the scenes merit further action.
A disappointing end to Shining
With declining ratings and growing controversy, Shining it ultimately ended its 10-episode run under a cloud of criticism.
Although melodrama remains a popular genre with a dedicated audience, Shining it serves to remind us of this repetitive narrative and socially insensitive scenes can have a significant impact on viewer reception – especially in a climate where issues such as drunk driving are taken seriously by the public.
Ultimately, the drama not only failed to recover its ratings, but also left a lasting negative impression, marking what many consider a unfortunate and controversial release.
Sources: Daum | The fact
