Seohyun has earned widespread praise for her deepened acting range, following her standout performance in the KBS2 drama The First Night With the Duke, which aired its final episode last Thursday.
The series not only saw a notable boost in domestic viewership but also resonated with international audiences, further cementing Seohyun’s rising status as a global talent with both star power and substance.
In The First Night With the Duke, Seohyun took on the challenge of playing two distinct characters, K and Cha Seon Chaek. Her ability to bring out the emotional complexity and unique traits of each role captivated viewers and added layers beyond the original web novel source material. Critics and fans alike praised her for delivering a performance that was both powerful and nuanced.
Her transformative acting drew enthusiastic reactions from fans around the world, showcasing her versatility and solidifying her place as one of the most compelling actresses of her generation.
The Seohyun Effect was clearly reflected in the numbers. The show breathed new life into KBS’s Wednesday-Thursday drama time slot, which had been stuck around 1% in viewership. By the finale, ratings had climbed to 3.2%, marking a significant turnaround and highlighting her ability to attract and retain viewers.
Global reception was just as strong. Streaming on the international platform Rakuten Viki, the series shot to the top of weekly viewership charts across North and South America, Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania. It ranked No. 1 in over 130 countries, including the U.S., Brazil, the U.K., France, and the UAE, underscoring Seohyun’s worldwide appeal.
Reflecting on the end of the series, Seohyun shared, “This project holds deep meaning for me. Through the characters’ pain, love, and personal struggles, I was able to discover new emotions and perspectives. It was a truly valuable experience, one that helped me grow not just as an actor, but as a person.”
