As programming slowly resumes its normal schedule, data on the ratings is once again being counted. In general viewership is down but the order of the drama ratings is not unexpected.
"Empress Ki" maintained the lead on the Monday night dramas but with a lower margin, as the nation remained focused on rescue efforts following the Sewol ferry disaster.
Despite the final episodes seeing the culmination of Seungnyang's efforts to vanquish her enemies, "Empress KI" earned ratings of only 22.9 percent, which is 3.2 percent lower than last week.
This week's first episode showed Seungnyang, played by Ha Ji Won, defeating her ally-turned-enemy Bayan, played by Kim Young Ho. She had the help of his nephew Tal Tal, played by Jin Yi Han. She also ordered Bayan's niece, played by Lim Joo Eun, to be poisoned for her attempt to kill Prince Maha. Tal Tal always admired Seungnyang but what finally made him change sides was his desire to protect the nation from his uncle's greed and ambition.
"God's Gift - 14 Days" will end this week, as the 14 days grace period that Lee Bo Young's character received finally comes to a close. The breathtaking mystery drama rated 8.3 percent, while the KBS drama special "Their Perfect Day" rated only 4.6 percent.
JTBC decided not to air the Monday-Tuesday night drama "Secret Love Affair" on either night.
Most daily and prime time drama programming should return to normal in the next week, except for the variety shows.
Today's schedule included the MBC shows "Everybody Kimchi," "Shining Romance" and "Empress Ki." The daily KBS drama "Sky Angel" is set to air, as is the daily SBS drama "A Well-Grown Daughter." Wednesday and Thursday night dramas are also expected to follow a normal schedule.
Two dramas that were scheduled to have wrap-up parties this week chose to cancel them in light of the disaster and donate the money to help the victims' families. The "God's Gift - 14 Days" crew will spend the time quietly with their families.
"Cunning Single Lady" is scheduled to show its final episodes this week. According to lead actor Joo Sang Wook, the fees originally intended for the drama's wrap-up party have been donated to the Salvation Army's relief efforts.
Golden Thumb, the production company for "Three Days" also donated money to the Korean Salvation Army and hopes their donation will inspire others to do the same. Although many celebrities have donated to the relief efforts, it is rare for production companies to donate.
