When the Phone Rings leads K-drama rankings: 5 classic tropes Yoo Yeon Seok-Chae Soo Bin starrer got right!

When the Phone Rings has topped the weekly ranking list for most buzzworthy dramas, despite MBC Network's highly-criticised move to postpone episodes 5 & 6 last weekend. And, it's not just in South Korea - this mystery thriller is wowing global audiences too. The Yoo Yeon Seok and Chae Soo Bin starrer has even edged out Gong Yoo's The Trunk by a comfy 9 spots on Netflix, asserting worldwide dominance.

When the Phone Rings most buzzworthy drama of the week

Good Data Corporation's weekly list has unveiled the most buzzworthy TV dramas. On expected lines, When the Phone Rings takes the top spot. This mystery thriller, adapted from a web novel titled The Number You Have Dialed follows a cold husband and his mute wife whose relationship takes a wild turn after a mysterious call.

When the Phone Rings' global dominance!

When the Phone Rings ranks #2 on Netflix's Global Top 10 Non-English Shows list, overtaking The Trunk starring Gong Yoo and Seo Hyun Jin, which is placed at 10th place in the coveted list.

So, what's the secret sauce to MBC drama's success?

The MBC drama is ringing loud and clear, igniting a global fan frenzy. But, why are fans so hooked? Below, we have shared five beloved K-drama tropes that the drama got right.

1. Contract marriage

Contract marriage has long been one of the most loved tropes among K-drama fans. Two strangers, bound by a legal document, fake a relationship while living together for their personal gains only to end up falling head over heels for each other.

2. Cold and distant male lead

Baek Sa-eon, the spokesman to the President, is as sharp as a tack but wait until you see him around his mute wife. Known for his distant personality, he won't let anyone have things their way, but when it comes to his better half, he's often left speechless.

3. Childhood connection

So this trope is highly debatable. While it was a non-negotiable staple in old dramas, some fans are now done with it, and they're not wrong. However, When the Phone Rings' leads are no childhood sweethearts, they are just acquainted, who perhaps found comfort in each other's silence.

4. The Chaebol heir/heiress

Ditching the usual chaebol heir and poor-but-plucky heroine tropes, this drama brings us a refreshing twist: two leads from affluent families, tied together in a marriage of convenience.

5. Slow-burn romance

Slow-burn romance trope has garnered immense popularity in recent times. No rushed relationships, just a deliciously gradual build-up of tension, emotions, and intimacy, making the ultimate payoff all the more satisfying.

Which is your favourite K-drama trope? Let us know.

For more news and updates from the world of?OTT, and?celebrities?from?Bollywood?and?Hollywood, keep reading?Indiatimes Entertainment.