“Bro are we normal" — Fans react as 'When The Phone Rings' episode 6 recordings its highest rating, ranking #2 on Netflix’s TV Show category

The buzz surrounding Netflix's When the Phone Rings hit a new peak as episode 6 recorded its highest viewership to date, helping the K-drama secure the #2 spot in Netflix’s global TV Show category.

Since its release on November 22, 2024, When the Phone Rings has steadily climbed the ranks of streaming charts. Episode 6, which was aired on December 15, boosted its position on Netflix’s “Non-English TV Show” list and surpassed 9.2% viewership ratings.

According to FlixControl, the show has gained traction in over 33 countries, including South Korea, Vietnam, Brazil, and the Philippines, where it remains a top-performing title. According to Nielsen, episode 6 gained over 6.9% of South Korean viewership ratings.

The show's growing popularity can be attributed to its blend of romance, mystery, and psychological thrills. The strong on-screen chemistry between leads Yoo Yeon-seok and Chae Soo-bin, along with the engaging storyline, has attracted a global audience.

The suspenseful romance series fans were thrilled, celebrating its gripping plot and standout performances by its lead actors. One fan wrote on X:

"The ratings bro are we normal at this point"

Fans took to social media to applaud the duo, citing their chemistry as a major highlight of the series.

"These scenes alone... deserves 30% in ratings, I'm not even kidding. This drama SLAPS SO HARD IT'S GIVING ME FEELINGS I DIDN'T KNOW I HAD," one fan wrote.

"Safe to say when the phone ring is a kdrama dark horse this year no one expects it to blow up this much," another fan said.

"OMG ITS REACHED 10% FOR THE RATING," one other fan wrote.

The latest episode drew widespread praise for Yoo Yeon-seok’s emotionally layered portrayal of Baek Sa-eon. His ability to convey anguish, regret, and subtle vulnerability resonated with viewers, especially during scenes where he reflected on his treatment of Hee-joo.

"the chemistry the tension yoo yeon seok and chae soobin acting it's incredible... we can clearly feel the fear, regret, hopelessness, frustration in the same time BEST COUPLE OF 2024," one fan wrote.

"#WhenThePhoneRings sets new rating record! It’s no other than insane thrilling top level acting party of Yoo Yeonseok and Chae Soobin last night," one fan commented.

"The angst in his voice. Saying how scared he was. It's almost a plea when he tells her to answer him. The cracked voice when he tells her he's coming for her. THIS WHOLE SCENE WAS PERFECT." another fan stated.

"Maybe too much hoping for 20persent but really hope it will get 20 persent. So they can go camping together," one other fan added.

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When the Phone Rings K-Drama plot, cast, and air time

When the Phone Rings is a 12-episode romantic thriller directed by Park Sang-woo and Wi Deuk-gyu. The story centers on Baek Sa-eon, a successful yet emotionally distant husband, and his wife, Hee-joo, who yearns for connection and understanding. A mysterious phone call catalyzes confronting their fractured relationship and unveils hidden truths.

Previously, in Episodes 1-6, viewers witnessed the unraveling of Sa-eon and Hee-joo's relationship as secrets and misunderstandings created an emotional distance between the couple. Sa-eon's cold demeanor and career pressures alienated Hee-joo, who became his wife due to her family's pressure.

However, the arrival of unsettling phone calls brought deeper mysteries to light, with Hee-joo's emotional struggles taking center stage. Hee-joo is a selectively mute person who works as a sign language interpreter. However, apart from her mother, no one knows she can actually talk, but she was forced to pretend to be mute.

Episode 6, in particular, showcased a pivotal moment as Sa-eon began to confront his failings as a husband. This episode left fans on edge with its emotional cliffhanger, paving the way for character development and the promise of reconciliation.

Global audiences have also credited When the Phone Rings' strong cinematography and storytelling for its immersive experience. The emotional depth and suspense balance keep fans eagerly anticipating each new installment.

Here is the lead cast list of When the Phone Rings:

• Yoo Yeon-seok (Hospital Playlist) as Baek Sa-eon
• Chae Soo-bin (I’m Not a Robot) as Hee-joo
• Jang Gyuri as Ji-yoon
• Heo Nam-joon as Sang-woo

When the Phone Rings Episode 6 marked a turning point in the narrative, fans are eagerly awaiting the upcoming episodes. Speculations suggest that Baek Sa-eon will make efforts to repair his marriage further, while the mystery behind the phone calls will deepen. Teasers for Episode 7 promise emotional confrontations and more revelations, fueling anticipation for how the story will unfold

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When the Phone Rings airs every Friday and Saturday on MBC and Netflix. Episodes 7 and 8 will release on December 20 and 21, 2024, respectively, at 10 pm KST.