‘Infinite Challenge’ finale tops TV ratings

SBS’ new Wednesday-Thursday TV series starring actor Jang Keun-suk made a strong debut at No. 2 on the weekly TV ratings chart, data showed Wednesday.

“Switch - Change the World,” which premiered on March 28 and promised to report on social irregularities with dramatic twists, earned a score of 240.1 on the Content Power Index (CPI) for March 26-April 1.

A lot of attention was given to the drama as it is likely to be the final show from the actor, who is hugely popular in Asia, before he serves his mandatory military service. All able-bodied Korean men are required to serve in the military for about two years. Details of Jang’s enrollment have yet to be determined.

Meanwhile, the top spot was taken by the last episode of MBC’s variety show “Infinite Challenge,” with 278.7. The 13-year-old show aired its finale March 31.

The index, created by CJ E&M and Nielsen Korea, measures the popularity of television programs based on social media and the influence entertainment TV programs have on consumer behavior. The index is based on shows aired on the three major terrestrial networks - MBC, SBS and KBS - and seven cable channels owned by CJ E&M, including tvN, Mnet and OCN, during prime time.

Yonhap