What is the highest-rated program in the history of Korean broadcasting? It’s KBS 2TV’s weekend drama First Love. The drama aired from September 7, 1996, to April 20, 1997, and recorded an all-time high viewership of 65.8%, earning its place as a “legend” in Korean television history. It remains the highest-rated program to this day, with no other show surpassing this record.
First Love centered on pure love but left a lasting impact on viewers due to its melancholic atmosphere and sad storyline. While the drama contained dramatic elements that could be seen as “makjang” (extreme and sensational), it was considered an emotional and heartfelt drama at the time.
The 65.8% viewership rating wasn’t just remarkable by numbers. During its airing, people disappeared from the streets during broadcast hours, and it was joked that “even ghosts don’t hunt people during First Love.” Weddings and important events were often rescheduled to avoid clashing with the drama’s broadcast. After the show ended, the term “First Love depression” was coined, highlighting its profound emotional impact.
The drama’s plot revolves around the pure and tender love between a poor aspiring artist, Seong Chan-hyeok (played by Bae Yong-joon), and a rich girl, Lee Hyo-gyeong (played by Choi Ji-woo). Their love faces many obstacles, including social class differences and family conflicts. Set from 1975 to the 1980s and 1990s, the story weaves a tale of romance, sacrifice, and tension, with Hyo-gyeong’s family strongly opposing the relationship.
First Love also marked a turning point in the acting careers of Choi Ji-woo and Bae Yong-joon, with both becoming household names after the drama’s success. The show’s impact extended beyond just the television screen, with its OSTs, including “Forever” by Stradivarius and Kim Jong-hwan’s “Reason for Being,” becoming huge hits.
Filming locations, such as the city of Chuncheon, became popular tourist destinations, and the drama helped boost the area’s tourism industry. For Choi Ji-woo, First Love was essentially her debut project, transitioning from an unknown talent into a star.
The show’s deep themes, such as class differences, familial sacrifices, and the nature of love, resonated with viewers. Its ending, where the protagonists part ways without reuniting, suggested that love is not solely about achieving a happy ending, but rather the meaningful journey and growth.
Even years later, First Love remains a legendary drama in Korea, remembered not only for its record-breaking ratings but for its emotional depth, timeless message, and the powerful performances of its actors.