In a remarkable feat for Korean entertainment, Girls' Generation member and acclaimed actress Im Yoon-ah, alongside rising star Lee Chae-min, have propelled their latest drama, Bon Appétit, Your Majesty, to unprecedented heights on the international streaming stage. According to a recent report from Chosun Ilbo, the series has captivated audiences worldwide, showcasing the dynamic chemistry between Im Yoon-ah and Lee Chae-min in a narrative that blends modern flair with historical intrigue.
The drama, marking Im Yoon-ah's return to period pieces after her successes in The King in Love and Hush, and Lee Chae-min's growing prominence following roles in Crash Course in Romance, has not only garnered critical acclaim but also solidified their status as global stars capable of carrying complex narratives.
Bon Appétit, Your Majesty has resonated with viewers across cultures, thanks to its unique fusion of culinary arts, time travel, and royal drama. Im Yoon-ah plays the lead role of Yeon Ji-yeong, a contemporary chef thrust into an ancient world, where her skills become both a lifeline and a catalyst for change. Lee Chae-min complements her as a charismatic young scholar who aids Ji-yeong in navigating the treacherous royal court. Im Yoon-ah's preparation for the role involved intensive training in French cuisine, adding authenticity to her portrayal, while Lee Chae-min's nuanced performance has been lauded for its depth. Directed by Chang Tae-you, the series has been praised for its lavish production values, intricate costumes, and a screenplay that deftly balances humor, romance, and tension. Co-stars include veteran actors portraying the tyrannical king and court figures, creating a dynamic ensemble that elevates the storytelling.
Following this surge in popularity, the series topped Netflix's Global Top 10 for Non-English TV Shows for the week of September 8 to 14, amassing an impressive 6.8 million views during that period. This achievement places it ahead of other notable entries like The Dead Girls and Two Graves, underscoring the growing influence of Korean content on the platform.
The show's success follows a record-breaking 100 million viewing hours on Netflix since its premiere on August 23, 2025, making it a standout non-original drama.
What is Bon Appétit, Your Majesty about?
Bon Appétit, Your Majesty is a limited series that follows Yeon Ji-yeong, a highly accomplished South Korean chef specializing in French cuisine. After winning a prestigious cooking competition in the modern day, she mysteriously time-slips back to the Joseon Dynasty, where she finds herself in the royal court. There, she must use her culinary expertise to prepare fusion dishes for a tyrannical king, whose volatile temperament makes every meal a potential life-or-death ordeal. Lee Chae-min's character, a clever and resourceful scholar, becomes her ally, helping her navigate palace politics and cultural differences.
The story explores themes of survival, cultural clash, and unexpected romance as Ji-yeong adapts her 21st-century techniques to ancient ingredients and gradually influences the king's harsh rule through the power of food. Drawing loose inspiration from historical figures like King Yeonsan, the drama blends historical fiction with romantic comedy elements, highlighting the transformative role of cuisine in bridging eras. At its core, it's a tale of a modern woman challenging archaic norms while fighting to return to her own time, all amid sumptuous feasts and courtly schemes.
You can watch the trailer for Bon Appetit, Your Majesty below:
As the series continues to build momentum, fans can look forward to more twists in the royal kitchen. Episodes 9 and 10 will be released this coming Saturday and Sunday on Netflix.
