Entertainment

The Thrilling Rise of 'Buried Hearts': Drama Captivates Audiences Ahead of Its Finale!

2025-04-08

Author: Ming

As the explosive SBS drama *Buried Hearts* approaches its nail-biting finale, it has captured the attention of viewers across the nation, reflected in its soaring ratings. Starring the talented Park Hyung Sik, the series has emerged as a frontrunner not just in the drama category but as the most popular content across all streaming platforms for the week, according to the latest integration rankings from OTT content search service Kino Lights released on April 8.

Set against a backdrop of betrayal and revenge, *Buried Hearts* follows the intense journey of Seo Dong Joo, a man who claws his way back from the brink of death after stealing a staggering 2 trillion KRW (approximately 1.35 billion USD) from a political slush fund to combat the malevolence that nearly cost him his life. The gripping narrative, combined with compelling emotional layers, has kept audiences on the edge of their seats, making it one of the must-watch dramas this season.

The latest episode aired on April 5 reached an impressive nationwide viewership rating of 14.6%, marking a personal best for the series. It dominated the ratings for its time slot, completing its ascent as the top show among all programs for that week, peaking at a thrilling 16.1% during its most engaging moments. With only two episodes left, the excitement and anticipation for the conclusion have reached unprecedented heights, leaving fans eager for what lies ahead.

Following closely in the rankings was Lim Young Woong's concert film *I'm Hero the Stadium.* This cinematic tribute showcased the immense popularity of the renowned singer, drawing a record-breaking audience of over 350,000, and breaking new ground as the first live concert film in Korea screened in both IMAX and ScreenX formats.

Third place on the charts was occupied by KBS's *Cinderella Game,* a daily drama weaving a tale of revenge, personal growth, and redemption, as the protagonist navigates the treacherous waters of deceit perpetrated by her enemies. With a promising finale set for April 25, interest in this series continues to mount.

Third in line, Netflix's *The 8 Show* captivated audiences with its rich storytelling, following two contrasting characters, Aesoon and Gwansik, against the stunning landscape of Jeju Island. The series concluded recently but made waves with a record number of nominations at the 61st Baeksang Arts Awards, showcasing its blend of artistic flair and viewer appeal.

Finishing in fifth place is JTBC's *The Art of Negotiation*, where lead actor Lee Je Hoon has turned heads with his striking appearance and remarkable performance as a legendary negotiator. The 10th episode achieved its highest ratings so far, solidifying the show's place among this week's top contenders.

In a notable display of diversity, the rankings from 6th to 10th featured a mix of genres, from Channel A's dating show *Heart Pairing* to MBC's light-hearted variety program *I Live Alone,* continuing to engage audiences nationwide.

As *Buried Hearts* solidifies its position as a fan-favorite ahead of its finale, the overall trends in viewership reflect a thriving landscape for Korean dramas, with diverse narratives captivating audiences across platforms. Stay tuned as the exciting conclusion of *Buried Hearts* promises to deliver the intensity and drama that fans have come to adore!