Director of 16-million-ticket film exits TV quietly with sub-1% ratings

A TV program hosted by Jang Hang-jun, director of The King's Warden, which drew 16 million moviegoers, has ended its run with ratings that never climbed above 1 percent.

SBS Plus's "Siganchu jeokja Seollok," a history-themed entertainment show hosted by Jang, wrapped up its 12-episode run Tuesday after its final broadcast.

The program, which explored little-known stories from world history, debuted July 14 and posted ratings of just 0.2 to 0.3 percent throughout its entire run.

According to Nielsen Korea, the premiere drew a 0.3 percent rating, and the finale closed at 0.2 percent — no improvement from start to finish.

Jang had been expected to shine as a host thanks to his reputation for wit and charm. Fellow cast members — actor Bong Tae-gyu, broadcaster Shin A-young and history storyteller Sun Kim — were all familiar faces, but none could lift the numbers.

The final episode took The King's Warden as its theme, examining the loyal retainers who stood by their king even after all power and glory had faded.

In his closing remarks, Jang said: "We are closing the book on 'Siganchu jeokja Seollok' for now, but there are still many stories left to tell. I will be waiting for the day when I can open the first page of another record together with you."