A new South Korean drama, Bon Appétit, Your Majesty, has become an international sensation. The series, which blends historical fantasy with contemporary romance, has ascended to the top spot on the Global Netflix Non-English TV chart. This achievement marks a significant win for the show, which has consistently ranked among the top of Netflix’s Global Top 10 in a multitude of territories.
The series, which began streaming on August 23, has already garnered 6.8 million views worldwide. It is captivating audiences with its unique premise.
A Modern Chef in the Joseon Dynasty
Bon Appétit, Your Majesty stars Lim Yoon-a, who plays Ji-young, a Michelin-starred chef from 2025. After winning a prestigious culinary competition in France, she is mysteriously transported back in time to the Joseon Dynasty. She finds herself in the court of Yi-heon, a tyrannical king with a refined palate, portrayed by Lee Chae-min. Ji-young must use her modern culinary skills to survive in the palace and, eventually, win the king’s heart.
The show’s success is due in part to its meticulous attention to detail. The production team, led by director Jang Tae-yoo, studied historical sources to imagine what ingredients and dishes were available at the time. “Even though Yeon Ji-young prepares modern dishes such as pasta, steak and schnitzel, she mainly uses Korean ingredients like doenjang, freshwater clams, ginseng and misugaru [mixed multi-grain powder],” the production team explained. “We wanted to show global viewers how familiar techniques can turn local ingredients into something extraordinary.”
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The director, Jang Tae-yoo, also revealed that “the real protagonist is the cooking itself,” ensuring that the culinary processes are as central to the story as the characters’ emotional journeys. The food sequences showcase a variety of fusion dishes, with chefs personally preparing them in front of diners to enhance the viewing experience.
From Television to Global Streaming
The show has been a hit not only on Netflix but also on linear television in South Korea. It logged a series-high of 12.7 percent nationwide viewership with its sixth episode, marking the highest rating of any TV drama this year. The show’s success has also provided a much-needed ratings rebound for tvN and boosted investor confidence in its production company, Studio Dragon.
Lim Yoon-a, who prepared for her role by attending cooking classes for three months before filming, spoke about the show’s success. “Thank you so much for the love you’ve shown Bon Appétit, Your Majesty,” she said. “There are plenty more thrilling and heart-fluttering moments ahead, so please keep watching as Ji-young cooks her way through every challenge.”
Lee Chae-min also commented on the show’s popularity. “I hope you’ll look forward to how Heon’s story unfolds as he slowly opens his heart to his chef, Ji-young,” he said.
With its unique blend of history, romance, and food, “Bon Appétit, Your Majesty” continues to captivate viewers and solidify the global appeal of Korean dramas.
