Netflix Hit ‘The Tyrant’s Chef’ Brings Its World to Life in Shibuya
The smash Netflix K-drama The Tyrant’s Chef, led by Girls’ Generation’s Yoona and breakout actor Lee Chaemin, is taking over Tokyo with an immersive pop-up store starting October 1. Hosted at Tower Records Shibuya, the 10-day event will let fans step directly into the drama’s fusion of royal chaos and culinary flair.
What to Expect at the Pop-Up
From larger-than-life display panels to Japan-exclusive merchandise, the pop-up is designed to plunge visitors into the drama’s magical mix of Joseon aesthetics and modern-day comedy. Limited-edition goods from the show’s previous Korean pop-up will also be available, making this a rare shopping opportunity for collectors.
Plus, early shoppers who purchase select items will receive a random “original Cheki-style photo” (there are 9 versions total!) while supplies last. It’s like a lucky draw for your favorite fictional chef and ruthless king.
Meet the Stars Behind the Phenomenon
Yoona plays elite chef Yeo Jiyoung, who time-slips into Joseon-era Korea and finds herself forced to cook for—get this—a terrifyingly picky tyrant. That role is played by Lee Chaemin, who’s turning heads after standout performances in Hierarchy and Crash Course in Romance. Their fiery chemistry and cheeky rapport have fans completely hooked.
Record Ratings and Global Flow
The drama didn’t just serve up sizzling scenes—it also cooked up incredible numbers. Its premiere logged a 6.8% viewership rating in Korea, the highest among tvN’s 2025 dramas. Globally, it slayed the Netflix charts, hitting the Top 10 for non-English series in an awe-inspiring 93 countries. It even snagged the No.1 spot in 42 of them—including Japan.
When, Where, and How
- Event: The Tyrant’s Chef Pop-Up Store in Japan
- Dates: October 1 (Wed) – October 10 (Fri), 2025
- Location: Tower Records Shibuya, 2nd Floor (TOWER SPACE)
- Hours: 11:00 AM–9:00 PM (Free admission)
Note: Hours may change based on crowd size or other conditions.
Coming Soon Online
Missed it in Tokyo? Don’t stress. An online version of the pop-up is coming in late October via the IMX Store. While some items may be Japan-exclusive, select products will ship internationally. Fans outside Japan, this one’s for you.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a full-on Hallyu fanatic or just obsessed with period dramas that don’t take themselves too seriously, The Tyrant’s Chef is pure bingeable bliss. And this Tokyo pop-up? The cherry on top. So sharpen those selfie skills and book your trip to Shibuya—it’s going to be a feast.
