The Korean drama landscape continues to evolve with gripping storylines, and Queen Mantis is proving that dark psychological thrillers have a dedicated audience. The SBS crime thriller enjoyed a slight increase in viewership ahead of its series finale, scoring an average nationwide rating of 6.3 percent for its penultimate episode on September 26.
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What Makes Queen Mantis Stand Out?
Queen Mantis follows a cop who must work with his mother, the “Mantis” – a female serial killer who murdered 5 men decades ago – when copycat killings emerge. The show stars powerhouse actress Go Hyun-jung alongside rising star Jang Dong-yoon in this intense psychological drama.
The series tackles the complex relationship between a son who has spent his life hating his serial killer mother, only to need her expertise to solve new crimes. This unique premise has resonated with viewers, contributing to its steady ratings performance throughout its run.
Ratings Performance Analysis
| Episode | Date | Rating (%) | Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premiere | September 2024 | 7.1% | #1 in time slot |
| Mid-season Peak | September 13 | 7.5% | Personal record |
| Penultimate | September 26 | 6.3% | Slight increase |
Queen Mantis has consistently performed well, achieving its highest viewership ratings of 7.5 percent during its first half, marking a personal record for the show. The drama’s ability to maintain audience engagement speaks to the quality of its storytelling and performances.
Competition in the Friday Night Slot
The drama landscape remains competitive, with multiple shows vying for viewer attention. MBC’s new drama “To the Moon,” which airs in the same time slot, rose to an average nationwide rating of 2.1 percent for its third episode, while other networks also battle for Friday night supremacy.
Meanwhile, JTBC’s “My Youth” kicked off the second half of its run with ratings of 1.5 percent and 2.1 percent for its seventh and eighth episodes, showing how diverse content attracts different demographics.
Why Korean Crime Thrillers Are Thriving
The success of Queen Mantis reflects a broader trend in Korean entertainment. Audiences are increasingly drawn to complex narratives that explore psychological depth and moral ambiguity. The mother-son dynamic in Queen Mantis offers viewers something beyond typical crime procedurals.
The show’s approach to exploring family trauma, justice, and redemption resonates particularly well with contemporary audiences who appreciate nuanced storytelling. This psychological complexity, combined with stellar performances, creates appointment television that keeps viewers returning week after week.
Global Appeal and Streaming Success
Queen Mantis is available on Netflix, ensuring international audiences can experience this gripping Korean thriller. The global appetite for Korean content continues to grow, with crime thrillers like Queen Mantis finding dedicated international fanbases.
The series joins the ranks of successful Korean psychological thrillers that have captivated both domestic and international audiences, proving that quality storytelling transcends cultural boundaries.
Final Thoughts
As Queen Mantis approaches its finale, the drama has successfully maintained viewer interest through compelling characters and psychological depth. The series demonstrates how Korean television continues to push creative boundaries while delivering entertainment that resonates with audiences.
For fans of psychological thrillers and complex family dynamics, Queen Mantis offers a viewing experience that challenges expectations while delivering the tension and emotional depth that makes Korean dramas so compelling.
Watch Queen Mantis on Viki or Netflix to experience this gripping thriller firsthand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Queen Mantis about?
A: Queen Mantis is a Korean crime thriller about a police officer who must work with his imprisoned serial killer mother to catch a copycat criminal. The show explores their complex relationship while delivering intense psychological drama.
Q: Where can I watch Queen Mantis with English subtitles?
A: Queen Mantis is available with English subtitles on both Viki and Netflix, making it accessible to international audiences who want to experience this compelling Korean thriller.
