‘Pyramid Game’ Wins Big at Netizen Drama Awards
In June 2025, the Netizen Awards’ Best Drama category saw a thrilling comeback. tvN’s ‘Pyramid Game’ (Korean title: 선재 업고 튀어) secured 43,174 votes, claiming a staggering 71.3% of the total and reclaiming the number one spot it had temporarily lost the previous month. The fan-favorite drama dominated 11 out of 12 months, solidifying its status as a major K-drama phenom.
A Comeback Fueled by Passionate Fandom
After briefly ceding first place in May to U+ Mobile TV’s ‘Game of Good and Evil’, Pyramid Game rebounded thanks to unwavering fan dedication. Critics praised the show’s solid storytelling, emotional depth, and powerful performances—all of which helped drive its return to the top.
Romance, Growth, and Resonance
Blending relatable romance with coming-of-age themes, the drama managed to strike a balance between critical acclaim and audience appeal. Its consistent popularity suggests it’s more than a trendy one-hit wonder—it’s a story with staying power that resonated across a wide viewer base.
Other Top-Ranked Dramas
- 2nd place: ‘Game of Good and Evil’ – 10,211 votes (16.9%)
- 3rd place: MBC’s ‘Motel California’ – 3,996 votes (6.6%)
- 4th place: Disney+ ‘Hyper Knife’ – 1,622 votes (2.7%)
- 5th place: tvN’s ‘Mom’s Friend’s Son’ – 756 votes (1.2%)
These dramas showcase the diversity of Korean storytelling—from unique visuals and genres to standout cast appeal. Notably, the popularity of actors like Hyeri and Jung Soobin played a role in their respective shows’ rankings.
A Colorful TV Landscape
Lower-ranked but notable contenders like Channel A’s ‘Check-in Hanyang’, Netflix’s ‘Tan-Geum’, and Disney+’s ‘Nine Puzzle’ highlight the growing multi-platform spread of K-dramas. Their inclusion in the rankings reflects the blossoming creativity and competitiveness of the market.
Beyond Trends—Loyalty Matters
The results of this round of voting underscore the power of loyal fandoms in sustaining a drama’s popularity. While ‘Pyramid Game’ proves the strength of a dedicated following, ‘Game of Good and Evil’ indicates that even new challengers can break through with the right momentum.
With the July competition just around the corner, the stage is set for even more surprises in the ever-evolving world of K-dramas.
