On September 28, the finale recorded a metropolitan average rating of 17.4% (peaking at 20%) and a nationwide average of 17.1% (peaking at 19.4%), setting a new series high and topping all channels, including terrestrial broadcasters, in its time slot. Among tvN’s target demographic of 20–49-year-olds, it also ranked first across all channels.
The ending brought chef Yeon Ji Young (Im YoonA) and tyrant king Yi Heon (Lee Chae Min) together in modern-day Seoul, completing their cross-era romance. However, the drama never explained how Yi Heon managed to time-travel to the present, leading audiences to label it an “avoidance ending” instead of a happy one.
In the final battle, Ji Young sacrificed herself to protect Yi Heon, and the mystical Mang Un Rok sent her back to the present alone. Heartbroken but clinging to hope, she rebuilt her life as a head chef, haunted by memories of Yi Heon. Just when it seemed her longing would remain unresolved, he suddenly appeared in a suit at her restaurant. The two embraced and shared a tender kiss, echoing his promise to cook bibimbap for her every day. While emotional, the unexplained twist left viewers divided.
Throughout its run, Bon Appétit, Your Majesty combined romance, palace intrigue, and culinary artistry, winning global fans with its imaginative portrayal of K-food and strong performances from its cast. Im YoonA balanced comedy and romance with nuance, while Lee Chae Min brought depth and charm to his role. Supporting performances by Kang Han Na, Choi Gwi Hwa, and others elevated the drama’s intensity.
The show’s success extended globally, becoming the first tvN drama to top Netflix’s Global Top 10 Non-English TV Shows for two consecutive weeks. It also ranked first in Gallup Korea’s “Favorite TV Programs” for September 2025 and led drama buzz charts for five consecutive weeks. Despite the finale’s controversy, Bon Appétit, Your Majesty closed as both a domestic and international hit.
Sources: nate
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