The popularity of the drama "Connection (커넥션)" is steadily rising.

Premiering on May 24, SBS's Friday-Saturday drama "Connection" (written by Lee Hyun and directed by Kim Moon-gyo) follows ace narcotics detective Jang Jae-kyung (played by Ji Sung), who is forcibly addicted to drugs. As he investigates his friend’s mysterious death, he unravels a 20-year-old twisted friendship and its dark connections in this suspenseful drama.

"Connection" started with a 5.7% viewership rating for its first episode and has seen a steady increase, reaching 8.5% by episode 5, 9.4% by episode 7, and hitting 11.1% by episode 10, averaging around 10.6%. Additionally, it has topped various rankings, including Good Data Corporation's TV-OTT search response for three consecutive weeks and TV-OTT drama buzz for two weeks in a row. Episode 12, which aired on June 29, achieved 11.2% in the Seoul metropolitan area and 10.6% nationwide, peaking at 14.2%, securing the top spot in its time slot and maintaining its lead among mini-series for 12 consecutive episodes.

Tense Storylines and Intriguing Characters in 'Connection'

In "Connection," Ji Sung plays Jang Jae-kyung, an ace detective in the narcotics unit at Anhyeon Police Station. Jang is kidnapped and forcibly addicted to drugs while investigating his friend Park Jun-seo’s (Yoon Na-moo) mysterious death. He discovers that his former schoolmates Park Tae-jin (Kwon Yul), Won Jong-soo (Kim Kyung-nam), and Oh Chi-hyun (Cha Yeob) are involved, leading him to delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding Park Jun-seo’s death.

Park Jun-seo leaves an insurance payout to Oh Yoon-jin (Jeon Mi-do) and Jang Jae-kyung, hinting at a larger conspiracy behind his death. As the series progresses, the secrets held by Jang’s friends unfold, revealing a massive plot behind Park Jun-seo’s death.

While "Connection" follows a familiar investigative drama format, its unique twist of a drug-addicted detective battling withdrawal symptoms during the investigation sets it apart. The complex relationships among characters involved in drug trafficking and murder increase the show’s gripping intensity.

Ji Sung’s Stellar Performance Elevates 'Connection'

Ji Sung’s exceptional acting as the drug-addicted detective Jang Jae-kyung significantly enhances the drama’s immersion. He skillfully portrays Jang’s charisma and depth, vividly depicting the physical and psychological toll of drug addiction with nuanced expressions of withdrawal symptoms, including his labored breathing, reddened eyes, and trembling body.

Ji Sung’s portrayal of Jang’s suspicion towards colleagues and his anger at being forcibly addicted showcases his signature calm yet chilling delivery, adding to the drama’s suspense. His intense action scenes, where he relentlessly pursues the perpetrator, combined with his logical deductions, keep viewers engaged and guessing about the case's resolution.

Viewers have praised Ji Sung’s performance, saying, "60 minutes fly by thanks to Ji Sung," "Truly a trustworthy actor," and "Ji Sung perfectly embodies every character he plays."

A Stellar Cast: Jeon Mi-do and Kwon Yul

Alongside Ji Sung, the performances of Jeon Mi-do and Kwon Yul are also garnering attention. Jeon Mi-do plays Oh Yoon-jin, a journalist and single mother desperate for money after her divorce. Her portrayal is subtly greedy yet pitiable, adding a unique charm to her character. Jeon Mi-do’s transformation from the warm and innocent doctor in "Hospital Playlist" to a bold, profanity-laced character in "Connection" has impressed viewers.

Kwon Yul, as prosecutor Park Tae-jin involved in the drug and murder case, delivers a cunning performance, manipulating others while maintaining a facade of innocence. Known for his roles in "Project Wolf Hunting," "The Policeman's Lineage," and "Anarchist from Colony," Kwon Yul brings his distinctive sharpness and sophistication to Park Tae-jin, creating another memorable character.

"Connection" captivates viewers with its escalating tension and the compelling performances of its cast, making it a must-watch drama that leaves audiences eagerly anticipating the next episode.