In a matter of 2 episodes, 'Haeundae Lovers' already received more than 10% viewer ratings. The 2nd episode surprisingly recorded a rating of 12.1%, rising 2.3% higher from its premier episode the day before.
The drama received a lot of buzz before airing, particularly due to T-ara's recent controversy. Advertisements and concerts involved with the K-pop group came to a screeching halt as the online community demanded the stop of T-ara's activities, 'Haeundae Lovers' included. The drama garnered attention as anti-fan clubs began forming even before airing, but the boycott actually led to higher ratings than its predecessor 'Big'.
Netizens were quick to scrutinize T-ara's So Yeon's acting and female lead Jo Yeo Jung's attempt at the Busan dialect. Anti-fans were quick to log on after the drama's airing to post negative comments about the show. In spite of online criticisms, 'Haeundae Lovers' threatens the top spot with its premier this week. It seems like 'Haeundae Lovers' will be benefitting from the attention, negative or not, through its strong viewer ratings.
