The drama's latest episode features a complex hotel murder case that captivates viewers
Category: Arts & Culture
‘재벌X형사2’, the popular SBS drama, achieved its highest viewership rating yet, reaching 6.2% nationwide and 7.0% in the capital region during its latest episode aired on August 21, 2026. This marks a notable increase from the previous episode's rating of 5.7%, and it showcases the show's growing popularity among audiences.
The series, which stars Ahn Bo-hyun (안보현) as the wealthy detective Jin Yi-soo and Jung Eun-chae (정은채) as his new team leader Joo Hye-ra, is a thrilling blend of mystery and comedy, revolving around high-stakes investigations involving chaebols (family-controlled conglomerates) and their entanglements with crime.
In the latest episode, Jin Yi-soo and Joo Hye-ra investigate the murder of a concierge named Oh Min-young (오민영), whose body was discovered in the Rosebud Hotel on White Day. The dramatic plot thickens as they explore the complex relationships surrounding the victim, including connections to the hotel’s management.
During the investigation, Jin Yi-soo suspects that the hotel representative, Yeom Jae-seop (염재섭), may have had a romantic involvement with the victim. As they dig into the case, they find that Oh Min-young had been dead for approximately 12 hours prior to the discovery of her body, with three stab wounds but minimal blood at the scene, and no murder weapon found. This peculiar situation raises questions about the circumstances of her death.
Jin Yi-soo employs his unique investigative style, dubbed 'money-based investigation', by leveraging his wealth and connections. He gains the trust of hotel staff, including room maids, to gather information about the victim's relationships and the dynamics at play within the hotel.
As the investigation progresses, it is revealed that a chaebol heir named Kang Chun-sik (강춘식), who had developed an infatuation with Oh Min-young, becomes a prime suspect. Kang had confessed his feelings to her but was rejected, leading to a volatile emotional backdrop. Following the discovery of bloodstains in his room after he checked out, Jin Yi-soo pursues him in an intense car chase, heightening the drama as the episode concludes.
Following the broadcast, the drama's ratings continued to rise, with episode five recording a peak rating of 8.2%, indicating a growing audience investment in the storyline. According to Nielsen Korea, the average rating for the capital region also reached 7.0%, with the 2049 demographic hitting a high of 2.4%. This upward trend has led to speculation about how long the series can maintain its momentum.
Critics have praised the engaging narrative and the character dynamics, particularly between Jin Yi-soo and Joo Hye-ra. Their chemistry and contrasting styles of investigation add depth to the procedural elements of the show. The introduction of new characters, such as the sculptor Yoo Sung-won (유성원), portrayed by Yoo Seung-ho (유승호), promises to complicate the plot and keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
As the series examines themes of love, jealousy, and betrayal, it has captivated audiences with its plot twists and with its exploration of the darker side of wealth and power. The complex web of relationships and the interplay of personal motives add layers to the murder mystery, ensuring that each episode leaves viewers eager for more.
Looking ahead, the sixth episode is set to air on August 22, 2026, at 9:50 PM, where fans are expected to see more revelations about the murder case and the characters involved. The show's ability to blend humor with serious themes has resonated well with audiences, making it a standout in the competitive drama market.