SBS’s “Athena” suffers a drop in viewer ratings

SBS’s “Athena” suffered a sharp drop in viewer ratings due to the 2011 AFC Asian Cup semi-final clash between South Korea and Japan, which aired in the same time slot.
According to AGB Nielsen Media Research, the January 25th episode recorded only a 5.4% in viewer ratings, which is a 9.4% drop from its 14.8% record on the 24th.
Meanwhile, MBC’s “Queen of Reversals” recorded 13.8%.
But the 2011 AFC Asian Cup was not the only reason for the drama’s dismal ratings.

“Athena’s” main actors, Jung Woo Sung and Jung Chan Woo, suffered injuries from a recent car accident on set, forcing shooting to be stopped. The drama was thus forced to air a side story special, featuring behind-the-scenes footage as well as memorable scenes chosen by the cast themselves.

Meanwhile, the 2011 AFC Asian Cup recorded 37.7% in viewer ratings due to the intense match between South Korea and Japan. Korea’s dreams of winning first place crashed out after they lost 0-3 in the penalty shootout; the team had been locked in a 2-2 tie with Japan after extra time.

Korea will face Uzbekistan in the 3rd place playoff on January 28th after the latter was trashed 0-6 by Australia in the other semi-final. The final will take place a day later.