Actress Kim Ji Won has once again proven her star power. Her latest lead role in “Doctor X” has achieved an impressive 18.5% viewership rating by its fourth episode, further solidifying her reputation as the Queen of the Box Office.
The SBS drama “Doctor X,” which debuted on October 9, hit the ground running with a nationwide rating of 11.4% (Nielsen Korea) for its premiere. The show’s popularity continued to surge, with ratings climbing to 14.9% for the second episode and 15.1% for the third, before soaring to 18.5% in the fourth installment, putting it on the cusp of breaking the 20% mark. With “Agent Kim Reactivated,” another of this year’s top-rated dramas, peaking at 23.1%, all eyes are on “Doctor X” to see how high its ratings can climb.
This latest success has reignited interest in Kim Ji Won’s stellar filmography. Since her debut as a commercial model in 2010, Kim has captivated audiences with her vibrant charm, first gaining widespread recognition in the 2011 sitcom “High Kick! Revenge of the Short Legged.” She has since established herself as a box office draw through a variety of compelling roles.
Her portrayal of a villainous character in “The Heirs” (2013) garnered significant attention, with the show reaching a peak rating of 25.6%. Kim’s on-screen chemistry with Jin Goo in the hit series “Descendants of the Sun” (2016) helped drive the show to an impressive 38.8% viewership. She further cemented her status as a ratings magnet with the youth romance “Fight for My Way” (2017), which achieved a solid 13.8% viewership.
Kim Ji Won has not only proven her ability to draw audiences but has also consistently demonstrated her range as an actress. In “My Liberation Notes” (2022), she took on the role of Yeom Mi-jeong, earning critical acclaim for her nuanced portrayal of the character’s complex emotions and inner turmoil.
In “Queen of Tears” (2024), Kim transformed into Hong Hae-in, a third-generation chaebol heiress with a tough exterior but a sensitive core. Her ability to seamlessly transition between icy composure and deeply emotional scenes captivated viewers. The show set a new record for tvN, achieving the network’s highest-ever drama rating of 24.9%.
With each new project, Kim Ji Won has revealed new facets of her talent. Now, after a two-year hiatus, she returns to the small screen with “Doctor X,” taking on yet another transformative role. The medical noir follows the story of Doctor X, Kye Soo-jung, a brilliant surgeon who uses her unparalleled skills to challenge systemic injustices.
Kim portrays Kye Soo-jung, nicknamed the Mad Dog of the Operating Room for her unwavering dedication to surgery. Soo-jung’s exceptional skills and uncompromising principles disrupt the hospital’s established hierarchy and power dynamics. Her fearless stand against injustice on behalf of her patients has struck a chord with viewers, offering a cathartic sense of justice served.
Adding depth to the character, Kim also showcases Soo-jung’s quirky side, from her prompt departures at the end of her shift to her weakness for sweet treats. This multifaceted portrayal has significantly enhanced the show’s appeal.
Kim Ji Won’s impact extends beyond ratings, as evidenced by the buzz surrounding the show. According to Good Data Corporation’s FUNdex, “Doctor X” claimed the top spot in TV-OTT drama rankings for the second week of October. Kim herself topped the integrated TV-OTT cast popularity rankings, underscoring the widespread interest in both the series and its lead actress.
From “Descendants of the Sun” to “Fight for My Way” and “Queen of Tears,” Kim Ji Won has consistently delivered both commercial success and compelling performances. As she takes on this new challenge with the medical noir “Doctor X,” fans and critics alike are eager to see if she will add another landmark role to her already impressive resume.