'Dear X' K-Drama Review: Kim Yoo-jung's Thriller Dominates Global Charts (No. 1 in 108 Countries)

'Dear X' Global Takeover: Kim Yoo-jung’s Chilling "Villainess" Era Dominates Charts in 108 Countries

If you thought the golden age of K-drama thrillers was over, think again. The psychological melodrama 'Dear X' (Korean: Chinaehaneun X) has not just entered the chat—it has completely taken over the conversation. Starring the nation’s beloved "little sister" turned acting powerhouse Kim Yoo-jung, the series has skyrocketed to the #1 spot on viewing charts in over 108 countries just weeks after its premiere.

Since its debut on November 6, 2025, 'Dear X' has defied the typical "slow burn" ratings climb, exploding out of the gate to become the undisputed must-watch drama of late 2025. From conquering HBO Max in Southeast Asia to dominating Rakuten Viki in the Americas and Europe, the world is currently obsessed with the sociopathic ambition of Baek Ah-jin.

Here is the full breakdown of why this drama is a global phenomenon and why you need to start watching it immediately.

Global Chart Domination: The Numbers Don't Lie

The metrics for 'Dear X' are nothing short of staggering. According to the latest data from OTT ranking sites like FlixPatrol and Good Data Corporation, the series has achieved a "perfect storm" of global viewership:

• Rakuten Viki: The drama has hit #1 in major markets including the United States, United Kingdom, Brazil, Mexico, and India. It also sits comfortably in the Top 3 across Oceania and Europe.
• HBO Max (Asia Pacific): In competitive markets like Hong Kong, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Taiwan, 'Dear X' is the #1 TV Show, beating out western series and local competitors.
• Disney+ (Japan): Breaking into the Japanese market is notoriously difficult for dark thrillers, yet the show has secured a Top 3 spot, proving its universal appeal.
• TVING (South Korea): Domestically, it has ranked #1 in paid subscription contributions for two consecutive weeks, driving a massive surge in new users for the platform.

The "Anti-Heroine" Factor: Why the World loves Baek Ah-jin

The secret sauce of 'Dear X' is its unapologetic lead character. K-dramas are famous for their "Candy" protagonists—cheerful, hardworking girls who overcome adversity with a smile. Baek Ah-jin (Kim Yoo-jung) is the exact opposite.

Adapted from the hit webtoon by Vanziun, the story follows Baek Ah-jin, a top actress who possesses dazzling beauty and a kind public image. But behind the scenes? She is a calculating sociopath who survived a brutal, abusive childhood by learning one lesson: use others before they use you.

She doesn't just defeat her enemies; she destroys them mentally and socially. Viewers are calling this a "refreshing dopamine hit." In an era of fatigue with morally righteous characters, global audiences are fascinated by a female lead who is arguably the villain of her own story. It's a "Queen Bee" revenge fantasy that feels dangerous and addictive.

Kim Yoo-jung’s Career-Defining Transformation

Critics and fans alike are calling this Kim Yoo-jung's My Mister or The Glory moment—a role that redefines her career.

Known for her bright roles in Love in the Moonlight and My Demon, Kim Yoo-jung sheds every ounce of her "sweetheart" image. Her performance relies on micro-expressions: a cold, dead-eyed stare that instantly shifts into a warm, fake smile when the cameras roll.

• The Chemistry of Destruction: The drama also features Kim Young-dae as Yoon Jun-seo, her step-brother and childhood protector. Their relationship is toxic, codependent, and mesmerizing. Jun-seo knows exactly what she is a "monster" yet he chooses to protect her, creating a heartbreaking tension that fans are eating up.
• The Cast: Supporting actors like Kim Do-hoon (from Moving) and Lee Yul-eum add layers of mystery, while a special appearance by Hwang In-youp in the latest episodes (7 & 8, released yesterday) has sent social media into a frenzy.

Production Pedigree: A Visual Masterpiece

It’s not just the acting; the show looks incredible. 'Dear X' is helmed by Director Lee Eung-bok, the visionary genius behind global hits like Goblin, Mr. Sunshine, and Sweet Home.

His signature style is all over this series moody lighting, cinematic framing, and a haunting OST that elevates the psychological tension. The direction treats Baek Ah-jin not just as a character, but as a predator in the wild, using shadows and mirrors to visually represent her duality.

Where to Watch 'Dear X' (Streaming Guide)

If you haven't started yet, you have 8 episodes to binge as of today.

• Global (Americas, Europe, India, Oceania): Streaming on Rakuten Viki.
• Southeast Asia: Streaming on HBO Max.
• Japan: Streaming on Disney+.
• South Korea: Streaming on TVING.

New Episodes: Released every Thursday. Finale Date: The 12-episode run will conclude on December 4, 2025.

The Verdict

'Dear X' is not a comfortable watch, but it is an essential one. It challenges our perception of empathy and ambition, asking the audience: Can you root for a monster if you know who made her that way?

With the release of episodes 7 and 8 yesterday pushing the narrative into even darker territory, the "Dear X Syndrome" shows no signs of slowing down. Join the millions worldwide who have already succumbed to Baek Ah-jin’s dangerous charm.