After the third week of its airing, KBS period drama “Hwarang” still struggle to increase its ratings. As a pre-produced drama, KBS will have to rely on the promotion of the drama because they are unable to alter the story.
The promotion is considered successful as “Hwarang” is able to topple “Guardian/Goblin” from the number one position in the content power index rangkings as reported by Seoul Daily News. High content power index means public interest for the drama through search engine, social network and Internet are very high.
However, the content power index are just indicator of public interest on the hype of the drama. It does not reflect the actual interest from audience in Korea to watch the drama, which is seen by the ratings. While for the international audience, the actual interest can be seen through the streaming site.
“Hwarang: Poet Warrior Youth” is unable to raise interest and curiosity from female audience with a six all-star male cast members. The lineup which consist of Park Seo-Jun and Do Ji-Han with three idols namely Shinee member Choi Min-Ho, BTS member Kim Tae-Hyung, and ZEA member Park Hyung-Sik. While two female actress Go-Ara and Seo Ye-Ji are enough to gain male interest.
KBS made a bold decision to pre-produce the drama, because the TV station is very confidence with the cast members as the selling point. However, at the time of its airing, “Hwarang” has a serious competition from “Romantic Doctor Teacher Kim” as noted by DongA News. The SBS drama has a very strong plot and storyline backed by strong acting from Han Suk-Kyu.
“Romantic Doctor Teacher Kim” aired every Monday and Tuesday night and grabbing above 20 percent ratings in average. On the other hand, Hwarang only average around 7 percent.
Next week will be the final week for “Romantic Doctor Teacher Kim” to air. Subsequently, “Hwarang: Poet Warrior Youth” is expected to take the top position in Monday and Tuesday night drama. Watch the preview of the Episode 7 of "Hwarang" below:
