Hit ratings, heartthrob leads, and a feast of Korean fusion
From its first bite, “The Tyrant’s Chef” had K-drama fans hooked. Blending time-travel fantasy, enemies-to-lovers romance, and drool-worthy Korean fusion cuisine, this weekend drama became a sleeper hit across the globe. Starring Girls’ Generation’s YoonA and rising actor Lee Chemin, the show wrapped up with a peak nationwide viewership of 20%—its highest yet.
Streaming dominance—and spicy reviews
On Netflix, the show didn’t just simmer—it boiled over. For two consecutive weeks, it ranked No. 1 globally in the non-English TV category and stayed in the Top 10 for six weeks straight. Major outlets took notice: Variety called its fourth and fifth-week No.1 streak a “key milestone,” while TIME dubbed the drama “one of this fall’s biggest global delights” and described it as “a flavorful journey.”
At home, a cultural phenomenon
In Korea, buzz was off the charts. It topped Good Data Corporation’s FUNdex for most talked-about drama and cast for six straight weeks. Gallup Korea even named it the most beloved TV program of September 2025—cementing its status as a bona fide national hit.
A final serving: Special episode on October 4
To thank fans for their love (and soften the post-finale heartbreak), a special broadcast titled “The Tyrant’s Chef: No Exit from the Palace” airs October 4 at 9:10 PM KST. YoonA, Lee Chemin, Kang Hanna, Oh Euisik, and Lee Juwan will return to dish on behind-the-scenes moments, answer fan questions, and rewatch the finale together.
More goodies: Pop-ups, photobooks, and exclusive merch
The celebration doesn’t stop there. Pop-up stores are opening in South Korea, Japan, and Taiwan, giving fans a chance to immerse themselves in the fandom. Plus, a deluxe photobook—with iconic lines, script excerpts, and candid snapshots—will be available for preorder.
What’s next after dessert?
The production team shared, “We’re incredibly grateful for the love from viewers around the world. We’ve planned these events as a small token of appreciation, and we hope fans stay with us until the very end.”
So, if you’re still suffering separation anxiety from your beloved tyrant and his time-traveling chef, mark your calendars for October 4. One last course is being served—you won’t want to miss it.
