K-dramas continue their unstoppable rise across global streaming platforms, and the latest hit — As You Stood By — is proof that Korean storytelling remains a global phenomenon. Released on November 7, the psychological thriller has swiftly captured audiences worldwide, ranking #3 globally and #6 in India, according to data from FlixPatrol.
Netflix’s ongoing $2.5 billion investment in Korean content seems to be paying off handsomely. The success of As You Stood By reinforces the platform’s confidence in K-dramas as one of its most profitable international content categories, continuing the momentum built by previous global hits like The Glory, Squid Game, and My Name.
Based on the Japanese novel Naomi and Kanako, As You Stood By tells the dark, emotional story of two women, Eun-su and Hui-su, who make a fateful decision to murder an abusive husband. What begins as an act of liberation quickly spirals into a gripping exploration of guilt, trauma, and moral decay. Through this intense narrative, the series offers a profound look at female friendship and survival under extreme circumstances.
Starring Jeon So-nee and Lee Yoo-mi, both known for their powerful performances, the show balances raw psychological tension with emotional vulnerability. Critics have praised its unflinching portrayal of violence and its empathy toward women trapped in cycles of abuse. The series also stands out for its haunting cinematography and slow-burn narrative style, which together create an atmosphere that lingers long after the final episode.
In India, where the K-drama wave has grown from a subcultural niche into a mainstream obsession, As You Stood By has found a particularly engaged audience. Indian viewers are increasingly drawn to Korean series for their strong emotional arcs, character-driven plots, and high production values — qualities that have become hallmarks of the genre.
Netflix’s success with As You Stood By further illustrates the streaming giant’s strategy to diversify its international catalog by betting on high-quality regional storytelling with universal appeal. As the line between local and global entertainment continues to blur, the rise of such emotionally charged Korean dramas shows how powerful narratives can transcend language, geography, and culture.
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