Hyun Bin's Popularity Soars in Japan, Said to Create the Second 'Yon-sama Syndrome'

Kapanlagi.com - CRASH LANDING ON YOU proves its success on the international stage. Although it ended some time ago, the drama starring Hyun Bin and Son Ye Jin still holds the second position in Netflix Japan, trailing behind IT'S OKAY NOT TO BE OKAY at the top of the list.

In an anecdote by Takao Yamada, special editor of Mainichi Newspaper, it was revealed that Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi also follows the drama CRASH LANDING ON YOU. "I have watched all the episodes," Toshimitsu Motegi said, as quoted by Allkpop.

"The idea of portraying the romantic comedy aspect of the love story between a North Korean soldier and a South Korean businesswoman has never been done before. This drama replicates life in North Korea as realistically as possible," wrote Takao Yamada in Mainichi Newspaper (10/8/2020).

1. Soaring Popularity

credit: Shukan Asahi Magazine

As the popularity of CRASH LANDING ON YOU increases, the name Hyun Bin also soars. Weekly magazine Aera, affiliated with Asahi Newspaper, even wrote a special article analyzing all of Hyun Bin's previous works, such as MY NAME IS KIM SAM SOON, SECRET GARDEN, and HYDE JEKYLL, ME. Hyun Bin's face also appears on the cover of Shukan Asahi Magazine's June edition.

2. Liked by Japanese Viewers

Hwang Sung Woon, director of the Korean Cultural Center in Japan, stated that the drama CRASH LANDING ON YOU presents a story that is loved by many viewers in the land of cherry blossoms. Not only is the plot refreshing, but the character portrayed by Hyun Bin also successfully melts the hearts of viewers.

"I think the plot that takes place in North Korea, which has never been tried in Japan, and the portrayal of cross-border love captures the attention of the Japanese society. In addition, the unchanging love of the male lead character depicted in dramas like GOBLIN and WINTER SONATA is very popular among Japanese viewers," said Hwang Sung Woon.

"Hyun Bin's character, who is determined and helps women well, is very popular. I was surprised to see that his popularity continues to endure even though the drama's ratings have dropped," he added.

3. Yon-sama Syndrome

Previously, actor Bae Yong Jun created a Korean Wave explosion with the "Yon-sama" syndrome through the drama WINTER SONATA which aired in 2003. When the drama aired in Japan, Bae Yong Joon's character, Yon-sama, was loved by many Japanese women because his character portrayed true love that never changes.

(all/rsp)