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MBC’s pioneering volleyball variety show, “Rookie Director Kim Yeon-kyung,” is celebrating a massive TV ratings success, solidifying its status as a new force in Korean entertainment. According to a report released on October 28, 2025, the show has dominated both viewership and online popularity metrics for two consecutive weeks, capturing the hearts of audiences with its unique blend of sports and heartfelt drama.
A New Powerhouse in Sunday Entertainment
The show’s impressive performance is backed by concrete data. According to Nielsen Korea, the fifth episode recorded a 2.8% viewership rating among the key 20-49 demographic, securing the top spot among all Sunday variety programs for the second week in a row. This demonstrates a strong connection with the most coveted viewer segment.
Furthermore, analysis from Good Data Corporation confirms the show’s immense buzz. In the FUNdex report for the fourth week of October 2025 (covering October 20-26), “Rookie Director Kim Yeon-kyung” ranked first in popularity among all non-drama TV programs. Notably, the star herself, Kim Yeon-kyung, also claimed the #1 spot for non-drama cast member popularity, proving her significant drawing power.
What Makes this Volleyball Variety Show a Hit?
The success of “Rookie Director Kim Yeon-kyung” stems from its compelling and sincere narrative. The show provides an authentic look at the challenges of coaching as Kim Yeon-kyung takes the helm of the “Pilsung Wonderdogs,” a team of amateur players. Viewers are captivated by the team’s growth story, filled with both triumphs and setbacks, making this volleyball variety show a standout in the current television landscape. The program is a production supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT and the Korea Communications Agency (KCA).
High Stakes and Future Challenges for the Wonderdogs
The on-court drama is reaching a critical point. The Pilsung Wonderdogs are currently facing the threat of disbandment after a tough loss against Japan’s Shujitsu High School left them with a precarious 33% win rate. Their fate now hinges on their next game, a high-stakes match against the formidable Gwangju Women’s University volleyball team, the reigning university league champions. The tension is palpable as the team fights for its survival.
The Director’s Impact and the Relevance of TV Ratings
The impact of Kim Yeon-kyung as director is undeniable, as her transition from player to coach offers a fresh perspective that resonates with viewers. Her leadership and the team’s journey have sparked conversations about perseverance and teamwork. The show’s impressive viewership numbers also highlight the ongoing debate over the importance of traditional television metrics in a shifting media world. This question of what matters more for Korean shows today—TV ratings or streaming views—is perfectly illustrated by the show’s broad appeal. Fans can also catch behind-the-scenes content on the official “Wonderdogs Locker Room” YouTube channel.
“Rookie Director Kim Yeon-kyung” continues to serve up thrilling moments every Sunday at 9:10 PM on MBC, as fans eagerly watch to see if the Wonderdogs can turn their season around.
This brief was automatically generated from official updates. For in-depth coverage, visit our Trends section.
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