Korean fantasy romance “The Remarried Empress” has set a new record for Disney+ and Hulu. Based on footage viewed over three days following its launch on November 3, this is the biggest premiere ever for a local original on worldwide platforms.
The drama is also Korea’s #1 premiere in over 50 markets. These include the USA, UK, Canada, Mexico, Chile, France, Spain, Germany, Australia and New Zealand.
The series was planned to be released on November 4. Disney+ instead released the show a day ahead of schedule as a sign of gratitude to its fan base.
The series is adapted from the Naver Webtoon series of the same name. The series focuses on Empress Navier and Emperor Sovieshu, rulers of the Eastern Empire, whose marriage begins to crack as tensions in their home countries rise. Things change when Sovieshu falls in love with Rashta, a runaway slave, and goes to extreme lengths to win her.
Navier refuses to give up his honor. She agrees to the emperor’s wishes as long as she is free to marry Heinrey, the crown prince of the rival Western Kingdom. As Navier fights to take back his power, the consequences put the entire empire at risk.
Shin Mina (“Karma,” “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha”) stars as Navier, while Ju Jihoon (“Light Shop,” “The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call”) stars as Sovieshu, Lee Jongsuk (“Big Mouth”) as Heinrey, and Lee Seyoung (“The Red Sleeve,” “The Crowned Clown”) as Rashta. Cho Suwon (“Still 17,” “Pinocchio”) directs from the big-screen adaptation of Yeoh Geena and Hyun Choongyeol.
Expectations for the series were quite high. The preview screenings at the Busan International Film Festival sold out and the trailer paid off, reaching 13 million views on YouTube and social platforms within 48 hours. The source webtoon has received close to 3 billion views since its initial release.
The first four episodes are currently airing. Two more will arrive every Wednesday starting November 11th and will be available exclusively on Disney+ and Hulu until the finale on November 25th.
Outside the US, Hulu operates as an entertainment banner within Disney+. Subscribers with a bundle plan in the US can access Hulu shows without leaving the Disney+ app.