'Nine Puzzles,' the latest Disney+ original series starring Kim Da Mi and Son Suk Ku, has become a breakout hit across Asia, topping the streaming charts in South Korea, Japan, and Hong Kong. The mystery thriller, directed by Yoon Jong Bin and co-produced by MOONLIGHT FILM CO., LTD. and Kakao Entertainment, debuted on May 21 with episodes 1 through 6 and immediately sparked widespread attention both at home and abroad.

Set a decade after an unsolved murder case, 'Nine Puzzles' follows elite profiler Lee Na (played by Kim Da Mi), the only witness from the original crime, and veteran detective Han Saem (Son Suk Ku), who still considers her a prime suspect. As a new string of puzzling murders begins, Lee Na receives mysterious puzzle pieces that pull her back into the dark mystery. Together, the duo unravels the chilling truth behind the serial killings in a tense and fast-paced narrative that has captivated viewers.

Notably, 'Nine Puzzles' is the only non-English-language series currently ranked in the Global Top 10 on FlixPatrol as of May 27. The show’s strong debut is further reflected in its rapid rise to second place in the weekly TV-OTT drama buzz rankings compiled by Good Data Corporation’s FUNdex for the fourth week of May.

Audiences around the world are praising the series on major review platforms like IMDb and MyDramaList. Comments highlight the show’s "fresh and gripping atmosphere," "symbolic storytelling," and "distinctive characters." Many viewers have noted how the series encourages them to actively engage in solving the mystery rather than offering easy answers.

The synergy between production houses Kakao Entertainment and MOONLIGHT FILM CO., LTD. has also drawn attention. Kakao Entertainment was involved from the early stages, contributing to the development of a tightly woven narrative. Meanwhile, director Yoon Jong Bin, known for critically acclaimed works like 'Nameless Gangster: Rules of the Time,' 'Kundo: Age of the Rampant,' 'The Spy Gone North,' and Netflix’s 'Narco-Saints,' brings his signature cinematic style to the series. He combines surreal storytelling with heightened realism, crafting a unique visual world through stylized art direction and dynamic camera work.

With its compelling narrative, immersive direction, and eye-catching visuals, 'Nine Puzzles' is earning recognition as a standout detective thriller. Audiences are particularly drawn to its smart storytelling and genre-defying tone, positioning the show as one of the most distinctive K-dramas of the year.

'Nine Puzzles's new episodes (7–9) will be released on May 28, followed by episodes 10–11 on June 4.

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