Netflix Mystery Series The Rat Claims Global Top Spot
The South Korean thriller quickly rose to the number one position on global non-English charts.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Foreign
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The mystery thriller series The Rat has hit number one on Netflix's global non-English show chart. The show, based on a Korean folktale, achieved this milestone within two weeks of its release.
Why it matters
The show's rapid ascent demonstrates the strong international demand for South Korean content on global streaming platforms. Its popularity highlights the successful reach of localized cultural storytelling adapted for worldwide audiences.
The series reached the top spot on the global non-English show chart after entering the top ten in 45 countries. Actor Park Yoon-ho secured his role following three distinct rounds of auditions.
The players
Park Yoon-ho
He is an actor who portrays the character Yoo-min in the series.
Ryu Jun-yeol
He is an actor who plays a dual role in the thriller series.
The details
Based on the Korean folktale The Rat That Ate the Nail, the series features actor Park Yoon-ho as the character Yoo-min, who is revealed as the titular figure in the finale. Park coordinated closely with co-star Ryu Jun-yeol to align vocal tones for scenes involving their dual roles.
Timeline
October 16, 2026: Article publication date.
Industry Dynamics
The success of The Rat aligns with the broader industry trend of South Korean productions capturing massive global audiences on streaming platforms. It exemplifies the ongoing shift in the entertainment landscape where local folklore-based narratives increasingly drive worldwide subscriber engagement.
Global subscribers can stream the mystery thriller exclusively on Netflix. The series is currently available to viewers in the 45 countries where it has reached the top ten rankings.
The takeaway
The show serves as a case study in how deep collaboration between lead actors can enhance complex character performances. For viewers, the series provides a high-budget look at how traditional Korean folktales are successfully reimagined as modern mystery thrillers.
Further reading
Explore more trends in Foreign film and television developments.
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