The ratings for Choo Young Woo and Kim So Hyun’s romantic drama Between Steps have slipped again after the series recorded a modest improvement in its second episode.
According to Nielsen Korea, the third episode of the ENA Monday-Tuesday drama earned a nationwide viewership rating of 2.1% on October 12, 2026. The figure represents a 0.3-percentage-point decline from the previous episode, which recorded 2.4%.
Although the latest result interrupts the drama’s early upward momentum, its viewership remains above the rating recorded at its premiere.
Between Steps Sees Ratings Fall After Episode 2 High
Between Steps debuted on October 5 with a nationwide rating of 1.8%, marking a relatively modest start for the new series.
The drama subsequently gained ground with its second episode, rising to 2.4% and offering an encouraging early sign of audience interest. However, the third episode’s decline to 2.1% suggests that maintaining that initial growth may be a challenge.
The series has not returned to its premiere low, but its latest performance puts the focus on whether upcoming episodes can attract more viewers and establish a steadier ratings trend.
Choo Young Woo and Kim So Hyun’s Romance Continues to Develop
The third episode continued exploring the evolving relationship between Park Min Jae, played by Choo Young Woo, and Im Yoo Jin, portrayed by Kim So Hyun.
Following a significant romantic moment between the two characters, the story introduced another obstacle that could complicate their growing connection. The episode left the consequences of this new challenge unresolved, leaving room for further developments in the episodes ahead.
Between Steps follows two graduate students whose unexpected reunion gradually transforms their personal lives and romantic relationship. The series combines the characters’ developing romance with the challenges they encounter as their connection deepens.
Can the Drama Regain Its Ratings Momentum?
With its first three episodes recording ratings of 1.8%, 2.4% and 2.1%, respectively, Between Steps has experienced both an early rebound and a subsequent setback.
The latest decline does not erase the improvement seen in episode 2, but it raises questions about whether the drama can build on its initial audience gains.
Attention will now turn to the next episodes to see whether the developing romance between Choo Young Woo and Kim So Hyun’s characters can help sustain viewer interest and push the series toward stronger ratings.
For now, Between Steps remains above its premiere figure, but its next ratings results will offer a clearer indication of whether the early rebound can translate into lasting momentum.
Source: Compiled from various sources
