Disney+ releases 'The Remarried Empress' a day early, setting a global viewership record
The Korean fantasy romance became the most viewed local original premiere on the platforms within 72 hours of its launch.
By Anthony Foster ·
Disney+ and Hulu recorded their highest viewership numbers for a local original series with the premiere of 'The Remarried Empress.' The Korean fantasy romance achieved this milestone across three days following its initial release.
The series launched on Nov. 3, one day ahead of its scheduled Nov. 4 debut. The platform moved the start date forward as a gesture of gratitude to its audience. This timing contributed to the show becoming the top Korean title premiere in more than 50 markets.
Leading markets where the series ranked first include the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Mexico, Chile, France, Spain, Germany, Australia, and New Zealand. The show is based on a Naver Webtoon series of the same name that has accumulated close to 3 billion views since its original publication.
Shin Mina plays Empress Navier in the production. Ju Jihoon portrays Emperor Sovieshu, while Lee Jongsuk takes on the role of Heinrey, the crown prince of the rival Western Kingdom. Lee Seyoung appears as Rashta, an escaped slave who captures the emperor's attention. Cho Suwon directs the series, which is adapted from a screen adaptation by Yeoh Geena and Hyun Choongyeol.
Interest in the project built before the digital release. Preview screenings at the Busan International Film Festival sold out their seats. A payoff trailer for the series garnered 13 million views across YouTube and social platforms within 48 hours.
The first four episodes are currently available for streaming. Two additional episodes will release each Wednesday beginning Nov. 11. The series concludes with its finale on Nov. 25.
In the United States, subscribers on bundle plans can access Hulu programming directly within the Disney+ application. Outside the U.S., Hulu functions as an entertainment banner within the Disney+ platform.
