Netflix series When Life Gives You Tangerines has been ranked No. 1 on TIME magazine’s list of “The 10 Best K-Dramas of 2025.” Since its release in December last year, the series has captivated audiences worldwide, earning renewed attention for its critical acclaim and commercial success both in Korea and overseas.
TIME praised the series, stating, “When Life Gives You Tangerines is the best Korean drama of the year, and perhaps one of the best television series of the year overall,” adding that it is “a work that transforms everyday realities into a story of beauty and depth.” The magazine further noted, “Anyone can make the fantastical feel special, but it is rare and precious to make the ordinary extraordinary without losing its complexity and texture.”
Set against the changing seasons, When Life Gives You Tangerines follows the adventure-filled lives of Ae-sun, a spirited rebel from Jeju portrayed by IU, and Gwan-sik, an earnest and devoted man played by Park Bo-gum. The series has resonated deeply with viewers through its tightly woven script, delicate direction, and the cast’s compelling performances.
The drama also topped Netflix’s Global Top 10 Non-English Series chart and remained in the Top 10 for eight consecutive weeks. As of the first half of the year, it has recorded approximately 35 million views, continuing its momentum as a worldwide hit.
Its impact has been equally evident during awards season. The series claimed four honors at the 61st Baeksang Arts Awards, three at the 4th Blue Dragon Series Awards, three at the 2025 International Streaming Festival Global OTT Awards, six at the APAN Star Awards, two at the KCA Culture and Entertainment Awards, as well as the Grand Prize at the New Media Content Awards and the Daejeon Special Visual Film Festival.
With TIME’s top ranking, strong global viewership, and an unprecedented run across major award ceremonies, When Life Gives You Tangerines has firmly established itself as the defining K-drama of 2025, proving to audiences around the world the power of turning ordinary lives into something truly extraordinary.
Reported by News Culture M.J._mj94070777@nc.press
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