Descendants of the Sun

Yoo Si-jin (Song Joong-ki) is a captain in the South Korean Army's special forces. He and his friend, Master sergeant Seo Dae-young (Jin Goo), are off-duty when they witness a young man stealing a motorcycle; they apprehend him using toy guns they had been using for a shooting game. The thief, Kim Gi-bum (Kim Min-seok), gets injured during the chase and is therefore sent to the hospital. Dae-young realises his cell phone was stolen by the thief and goes to the hospital with Si-jin to retrieve it.

In the emergency room, Si-jin meets Dr Kang Mo-yeon (Song Hye-kyo) for the first time and is instantly attracted to her. Mo-Yeon mistakenly assumes Si-jin is part of the thief's criminal gang after overhearing Dae-young address him as "Big Boss", which is his call sign. Si-jin proves his identity with the help of army surgeon Yoon Myung-ju (Kim Ji-won), who turns out to be Mo-yeon's former rival from medical school.

Si-jin and Mo-yeon begin to date, but due to Si-jin often being called in for duty, their dates are often interrupted halfway. Si-jin receives orders to be deployed on a peacekeeping mission in the fictional war-torn country of Uruk. Meanwhile, Mo-yeon is upset because she found out that she had been passed over for a professorship favouring a less-capable colleague who had familial connections to the hospital management. When Si-jin returns and meets Mo-yeon again, she directly asks him to explain his sudden disappearances and the nature of his job. Still, he cannot go into too much detail due to the highly classified nature of his assignments. They talk about their views on life and realise how different they are. Si-jin, as a soldier, kills to protect lives, while Mo-yeon, as a doctor, honours the Hippocratic Oath and tries to save lives. Due to their philosophical differences, they agree to part ways. Dae-young, on the other hand, faces a dilemma over whether to continue his relationship with Myung-ju or risk being forced out of the army for breaking fraternisation rules as he was not a commissioned officer. The fact that Myung-ju is the daughter of his and Si-jin's superior, the commander of the Special Forces, makes the situation even more fraught.

Eight months later, Mo-yeon rebuffs the romantic advances of the hospital director and, as revenge, is assigned to lead a team of medical volunteers to Uruk against her will. In Uruk, Si-jin and Mo-yeon reunite and both gain a deeper insight into one another's jobs as their respective teams endure an earthquake and an M3 virus (fictional disease described as being deadlier than ebola) outbreak, while also dealing with a local warlord who once fought alongside Si-jin in a joint mission between the South Korean and United States armed forces but now takes advantage of the corrupt government of Uruk to make money off human and arms trafficking. While in Uruk, Mo-yeon accidentally confesses her feelings (much to the amusement of their respective teams) and the two officially start dating. She gradually comes to terms with the possibility of Si-jin's being killed in action and the fact that she may never have full disclosure of his whereabouts. In the meantime, the usually stoic Dae-young finally works up the nerve to show more affection toward Myung-ju after she nearly dies in quarantine after being infected with the M3 virus.

Si-jin and Mo-yeon continue their relationship after returning to Korea, until Si-jin and Dae-young are sent on a classified operation in which they disappear and are assumed to be dead. Months pass during which Mo-yeon mourns Si-jin's death and sends him text messages that she presumes he cannot read. She decides to commemorate the one-year mark of his passing by volunteering with a medical team sent to Albania, where Si-jin finds her toying with a pebble they had picked up from a beach. Later, Mo-yeon's colleagues in Korea mistake Si-jin for a ghost over a face call because Mo-yeon has laid the table in front of him with traditional jesa foods she had been meaning to put out for his memorial. Meanwhile, Dae-young heads to Uruk to find Myung-ju, who has been deployed there alongside the thief Si-jin and Dae-young apprehended who has now risen through the ranks to take Dae-young's former position. After their reunion, Si-jin tells Mo-yeon that he and Dae-young were rescued from captivity by "a friend from afar", a soldier from North Korea whom Si-jin had helped before. Si-jin and Mo-yeon, along with Myung-ju and Dae-young, are all happily reunited with each other.

• Song Joong-ki as Captain Yoo Si-jin (a.k.a. Big Boss){{cite web|url=http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160315000928&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=Actor Song Joong-ki toes line between pretty, masculine in 'Descendants of the Sun'|date=March 15, 2016|work=The Korea Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825225633/http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160315000928&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}

{{Infobox character

| name = Yoo Si-jin

| series = Descendants of the Sun

| image =

| alt =

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| first_major = Episode 1

| first_minor =

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| occupation = ROK Special Forces

| affiliation = Republic of Korea Army Special Warfare Command, 707th Special Mission Battalion, Alpha Team

| fighting_style =

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| nationality = South Korean

| extra-hdr = Military career

| lbl31 = Service

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Captain (Episode 1- Episode 15)
20px
Major (Episode 16)

}}

:The captain and leader of Alpha Team, a fictional elite special forces team of the 707th Special Mission Battalion in South Korea. He followed in the footsteps of his father, a retired sergeant major, into the military and graduated from the Korea Military Academy at the top of his class. Si-jin cares little for the politics of war and believes in protecting and defending those who need help, his country and his men's honour, even if it means having to question his superiors' orders. His light-hearted approach to life and witty sense of humour make him popular with his team and subordinates but Mo-yeon quickly realizes that it is his way of deflecting her questions about his job and coping with the pain of losing comrades. At the end of the series, he is promoted to major. He falls in love with Mo-yeon at first sight but gets rejected by her three times.

• Song Hye-kyo as Doctor Kang Mo-yeon (a.k.a. Beauty and Pretty one){{cite web|last=Yoon|first=Sarah|title=Song Hye-kyo talks her next role as military doctor with Elle|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201505191315217835183_2|website=K-pop Herald|access-date=September 20, 2015|date=May 19, 2015|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304115821/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201505191315217835183_2|url-status=live}}

:A cardiothoracic surgeon who works at Haesung Hospital. She is a beautiful, strong, and assertive woman who believes that competence should outweigh connections but must confront the harsh reality that she cannot get anywhere without connections. She stands firmly by her principles and doesn't fall prey easily to her emotions, though she is not afraid to admit her mistakes. Her first meeting with Si-jin begins awkwardly when she mistakes him for a criminal boss and becomes attracted to him. Although the feeling is mutual, she rejects him three times as she finds herself struggling to accept his occupation as a soldier in the special forces and what it entails.

• Jin Goo as Master sergeant Seo Dae-young (a.k.a. Wolf){{cite web|url=http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160322000926&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=Actor Jin Goo gets boost with 'Descendants of the Sun'|date=March 22, 2016|work=The Korea Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825234412/http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160322000926&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}

{{Infobox character

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| series = Descendants of the Sun

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Master sergeant

}}

:As the most senior non-commissioned officer in Alpha Team and Si-jin's right-hand man and best friend, Dae-young is a career soldier who sticks to his principles and is extremely loyal to his commanding officer, Si-jin and comrades. He is notorious among recruits and Academy cadets as a no-nonsense and strict instructor (he was also Si-jin's former drill instructor at the Academy). His level head and vast experience often come in handy in times of crisis during deployments. He is the straight man to the happy-go-lucky Si-jin and possesses a sharp deadpan sense of humor. For much of the series, he struggles with expressing his true feelings for Myung-ju due to the objection of her father who wanted Si-jin as his son-in-law.

• Kim Ji-won as First Lieutenant Yoon Myung-ju{{cite web|url=http://english.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2016/04/02/2016040200412.html|title=Kim Ji-won Gains Leverage from Hit TV Soap|work=The Chosun Ilbo|date=April 2, 2016|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=May 15, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515045618/http://english.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2016/04/02/2016040200412.html|url-status=live}}

{{Infobox character

| name = Yoon Myung-ju

| series = Descendants of the Sun

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| lbl31 = Service

| data31 = Republic of Korea Army

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First Lieutenant

}}

:An army doctor who is also the daughter of Lieutenant General Yoon, commander of the South Korean Special Forces Brigade. She followed her father's footsteps and graduates from the Korea Military Academy, where she was a junior of Si-jin, before doing an internship at Haesung Hospital. During her first assignment, where she was the medical officer on duty during a training exercise, she first meets Dae-young and is instantly attracted to him. Their relationship is well known among the other doctors at Haesung Hospital and fellow soldiers but is considered a taboo as she is an officer and he is a non-commissioned officer. However, it does not deter her from pursuing Dae-young, much to the Lt. Gen's chagrin.

• Park Hoon as Sergeant first class Choi Woo-geun (a.k.a. Snoopy)

{{Infobox character

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| series = Descendants of the Sun

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Sergeant first class

}}

:An Explosive ordnance disposal expert who also served as the team's designated marksman and the only married member of Alpha Team

• Choi Woong as Staff Sergeant Gong Cheol-ho (a.k.a. Harry Potter)

{{Infobox character

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| series = Descendants of the Sun

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| full_name = Gong Cheol-ho

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Staff Sergeant

}}

• Ahn Bo-hyun as Sergeant first class Im Gwang-nam (a.k.a. Piccolo)

{{Infobox character

| name = Im Gwang-nam

| series = Descendants of the Sun

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| alt =

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| first_major = Episode 1

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Sergeant first class

}}

• Onew as Lee Chi-hoon (1st year resident of Thoracic Surgery a.k.a. Handsome Spaceman){{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201602101754001281879_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=SHINee Onew dons doctor gown for his new role|date=February 10, 2016|work=Kpop Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825233459/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201602101754001281879_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}
• Lee Seung-joon as Song Sang-hyun (General Surgeon)
• Seo Jeong-yeon as Ha Ja-ae (ER Senior Nurse) (a.k.a. Miss B)
• Park Hwan-hee as Choi Min-ji (ER Nurse)

• Hyun Jyu-ni as Pyo Ji-soo (Pathology Specialist)
• Tae In-ho as Han Suk-won (Chairman of Haesung Hospital)
• Park Ah-in as Kim Eun-ji (Thoracic Surgery Specialist)
• Jo Woo-ri as Jang Hee-eun (1st Year Resident of Anesthesiology) (wife of Dr. Lee Chi-hoon){{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201506301711504805744_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=Jo Woo-ri joins the cast of 'Descendants of the Sun'|date=June 30, 2015|work=Kpop Herald|access-date=December 23, 2017|archive-date=December 24, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171224042259/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201506301711504805744_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}

• Kang Shin-il as Lieutenant General Yoon Gil-joon (a.k.a. Yellow Tiger) (Myung-ju's father)

{{Infobox character

| name = Yoon Gil-joon

| series = Descendants of the Sun

| image =

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| lbl32 = Years of service

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| data33 = 20px
Lieutenant General

}}

• Kim Byung-chul as lieutenant colonel (later promoted to colonel) Park Byung-soo

{{Infobox character

| name = Park Byung-soo

| series = Descendants of the Sun

| image =

| alt =

| caption =

| first_major = Episode 3

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| lbl32 = Years of service

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| data33 = 20px
Lieutenant Colonel (Episode 2-Episode 15)
20px
Colonel (Episode 16)

}}

• Kim Min-seok as Lance corporal Kim Gi-bum (later promoted to staff sergeant as seen in ep 16). A pickpocket later enlisted to the army.

{{Infobox character

| name = Kim Gi-bum

| series = Descendants of the Sun

| image =

| alt =

| caption =

| first_major = Episode 1

| first_minor =

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| lbl32 = Years of service

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| data33 = 20px
Lance corporal (Episode 3-Episode 15)
20px
Staff Sergeant (Episode 16)

}}

• Jasper Cho as Daniel Spencer (Peacemaker Emergency Doctor Team){{cite web|url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160406003400315|title=(Yonhap Interview) Supporting actor for 'Descendants of the Sun' says he 'could have been better'|date=April 6, 2016|work=Yonhap News Agency|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826032531/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160406003400315|url-status=live}}
• Jeon Soo-jin as Ri Ye-hwa (Peacemaker Emergency Nurse Team)
• David Lee McInnis as David Argus (Gang Boss, former Delta Force Captain), the main antagonist.
• Dean Dawson as the Chief of Police (Tae Baek Police Chief)
• Jo Jae-yoon as Jin Young-soo (Chief Manager of Uruk Electric Power Corporation)
• Lee Yi-kyung as Kang Min-jae
• Zyon Barreto as Fatima
• Elena Zhernovaya as Valentine{{Instagram | id= vse_krugom | name= Elena Zhernovaia }}
• David Pipes as Martin (World Times Reporter)
• Ji Seung-hyun as Senior Lieutenant Ahn Jung-joon, Korean People's Army.
• Kwak In-joon as Lee Han-soo (Minister of Foreign Affairs)
• Joey Albright as US Army Delta Force member

• Lee Kwang-soo as shooting arcade operator (episode 1){{cite web|last1=Choi|first1=He-suk|title=Song Joong-ki recruits Lee Kwang-soo for new drama|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201507161704189800195_2|website=K-pop Herald|access-date=September 20, 2015|date=July 16, 2015|archive-date=March 15, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160315075256/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201507161704189800195_2|url-status=live}}
• Lee Jong-hyuk as Captain Kim Jin-seok (episode 2, 5, 10, 15)
• Matthew Douma as Jordan, US Army Delta Force Captain (episode 2, 10, 12){{cite web|title="Produce 101" Trainee Jun Somi's Father Cameos in "Descendants of the Sun"|url=http://www.soompi.com/2016/02/25/produce-101-trainee-jun-somis-father-cameos-in-descendants-of-the-sun/|website=Soompi|access-date=March 16, 2016|date=February 25, 2016|archive-date=March 20, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160320171215/http://www.soompi.com/2016/02/25/produce-101-trainee-jun-somis-father-cameos-in-descendants-of-the-sun/|url-status=live}}{{Unreliable source?|reason=See reliable sources list on WP:KO/RS|date=February 2025}}
• Jung Ji-won as TV announcer (episode 2)
• Park Tae-won as TV announcer (episode 2)
• Ryu Hwa-young as Seo Dae-young's ex-girlfriend (episode 4)
• Jun In-taek as Yoo Young-geun (Abraham Yoo) (Yoo Shi Jin's father) (episode 6, 7, 15, 16)
• Park Joon-geum as Lee Chi-hoon's mother (episode 7, 11)
• Anupam Tripathi as injured earthquake survivor and foreign worker who gave Dr Kang Mo-yeon his shoes (episode 6, 7){{Cite web|date=2021-09-30|title=Squid Game's Indian actor Anupam Tripathi has an interesting connection with Song Joong-ki and Song Hye-kyo|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/web-series/squid-game-s-indian-actor-anupam-tripathi-has-an-interesting-connection-with-song-joong-ki-and-song-hyekyo-101632987104892.html|access-date=2021-09-30|website=Hindustan Times|language=en|archive-date=September 30, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210930084743/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/web-series/squid-game-s-indian-actor-anupam-tripathi-has-an-interesting-connection-with-song-joong-ki-and-song-hyekyo-101632987104892.html|url-status=live}}
• Yoo Ah-in as bank reception Eom Hong-shik (episode 13){{cite web|url=https://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/04/398_201688.html|title=Yoo Ah-in gets 'Descendants of the Sun' role|date=April 1, 2016|work=The Korea Times|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=October 26, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211026201424/http://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/04/398_201688.html|url-status=live}}
• Nam Gi-ae as Kang Mo-yeon's mother (episode 13)
• Lee Jae-yong as Lieutenant General Choi Ji-ho, Korean People's Army
• Red Velvet as themselves (episode 16){{Cite web |title=Red Velvet makes cameo appearance on last episode of "Descendants of the Sun" > K-POP |url=https://www1.korea.com/bbs/board.php?bo_table=KPOP&wr_id=2797&lang=cn |access-date=2023-03-22 |website=www1.korea.com |archive-date=March 22, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230322021546/https://www1.korea.com/bbs/board.php?bo_table=KPOP&wr_id=2797&lang=cn |url-status=live }}{{Unreliable source?|reason=See reliable sources list on WP:KO/RS|date=February 2025}}

Descendants of the Sun was fully pre-produced before airing which is a departure from the live-shoot production format that characterizes most Korean dramas.{{cite web|url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/news/2016/03/10/0200000000AEN20160310001652315.html|title=Descendants of the Sun outpaces My Love from the Star|work=Yonhap News Agency|access-date=March 15, 2016|date=March 10, 2016|archive-date=March 27, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160327145558/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/news/2016/03/10/0200000000AEN20160310001652315.html|url-status=live}} The drama is Song Joong-ki's comeback project after serving his two years of mandatory military service.{{cite web|url=http://english.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2015/04/03/2015040301051.html|title=Song Joong-ki to Return to Acting After Military Discharge|date=April 3, 2015|work=The Chosun Ilbo|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304225551/http://english.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2015/04/03/2015040301051.html|url-status=live}} The production cost 13 billion won (approximately $10.8 million) to produce.{{cite web|url=http://www.soompi.com/2016/03/06/the-staggering-production-cost-of-descendants-of-the-sun-revealed/|title=The Staggering Production Cost of "Descendants of the Sun" Revealed|last=orionight|date=March 6, 2016 |publisher=Soompi|access-date=April 6, 2016|archive-date=April 6, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406071537/http://www.soompi.com/2016/03/06/the-staggering-production-cost-of-descendants-of-the-sun-revealed/|url-status=live}}{{Unreliable source?|reason=See reliable sources list on WP:KO/RS|date=February 2025}}

Initially, there were doubts about the profitability of the drama, as a story involving a soldier may not be enough to garner a very high success rate. This is revealed when SBS were reluctant to continue with the project. It was then passed to KBS.{{cite web|url=http://www.soompi.com/2016/03/09/the-reason-sbs-missed-out-on-descendants-of-the-sun-and-signal|title=The Reason SBS Missed Out on "Descendants of the Sun" and "Signal"|date=March 9, 2016|publisher=Soompi|access-date=July 2, 2016|archive-date=July 12, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160712142421/http://www.soompi.com/2016/03/09/the-reason-sbs-missed-out-on-descendants-of-the-sun-and-signal/|url-status=live}}{{Unreliable source?|reason=See reliable sources list on WP:KO/RS|date=February 2025}} According to local reports by Newsis, lead actor Song Joong-ki was not the first choice of writers and directors for the hit South Korean series, as he was deemed too slender for the role of a heroic special forces officer.{{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201604041757519512419_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=Song Joong-ki initially not cast as Yoo Shi-jin|date=April 4, 2016|work=Kpop Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825234820/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201604041757519512419_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}} Song was later cast as the producers decided to change the character of the role.{{cite web|url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/news/2016/03/31/0200000000AEN20160331010600315.html|title=Director says Song not first choice in 'Descendants of the Sun'|date=March 31, 2016|work=Yonhap News Agency|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826031248/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/news/2016/03/31/0200000000AEN20160331010600315.html|url-status=live}} The 6 June episode of tvN's The List 2016 revealed the names of four actors who rejected the role before Song Joong-ki was chosen. As per the show, the A-listers who passed the role includes Won Bin, Jo In-sung, Gong Yoo, and Kim Woo-bin.{{cite web|date=March 14, 2018|title=Four top stars who gave way to Song Joong Ki|url=https://m.insight.co.kr/news/64391|website=Insight.co.kr|access-date=October 7, 2020|archive-date=November 27, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127224624/https://m.insight.co.kr/news/64391|url-status=live}} Reportedly, the actors were skeptical on sporting the army style short hair. It is also said that the artists expressed slight discomfort on portraying a role of a soldier and could not commit with the pre-production format of the show.{{cite web|url=http://www.ibtimes.sg/descendants-sun-see-who-were-4-actors-who-rejected-song-joong-kis-role-1806|title=Descendants of the Sun: See who were the 4 actors who rejected Song Joong Ki's role|work=International Business Times|date=June 8, 2016|access-date=January 6, 2017|archive-date=January 7, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170107095928/http://www.ibtimes.sg/descendants-sun-see-who-were-4-actors-who-rejected-song-joong-kis-role-1806|url-status=live}}

On June 12, 2015, lead actors Song Joong-ki and Song Hye-kyo filmed their first scene in Seoul.{{cite web|title=Song Joong Ki and Song Hye Kyo revealed to have started filming Descendants of the Sun|url=http://www.allkpop.com/article/2015/06/song-joong-ki-and-song-hye-kyo-revealed-to-have-started-filming-descendants-of-the-sun|publisher=Allkpop|access-date=September 30, 2015|date=June 12, 2015|archive-date=April 17, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160417034603/http://www.allkpop.com/article/2015/06/song-joong-ki-and-song-hye-kyo-revealed-to-have-started-filming-descendants-of-the-sun|url-status=live}}{{Unreliable source?|reason=See reliable sources list on WP:KO/RS|date=February 2025}} On September 28, 2015, the entire cast and crew (including the four leads, Song Joong-ki, Song Hye-kyo, Jin Goo, Kim Ji-won, as well as supporting actors Kang Shin-il and Onew) departed for Greece.{{cite web|last1=Sung|first1=So-young|title=Song Joong-ki is filming in Greece|url=http://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/article/Article.aspx?aid=3009742|website=Korea JoongAng Daily|access-date=October 11, 2015|date=October 1, 2015|archive-date=May 2, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160502183430/http://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/article/article.aspx?aid=3009742|url-status=live}} The team resided in the country for approximately a month to shoot episodes crucial to the drama's plot.{{cite web|title=Descendants of the Sun Starts Filming in Greece With Month-Long Schedule|url=http://www.soompi.com/2015/09/29/descendants-of-the-sun-starts-filming-in-greece-with-a-month-long-stay/|publisher=Soompi|access-date=September 30, 2015|date=September 29, 2015|archive-date=April 13, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160413023844/http://www.soompi.com/2015/09/29/descendants-of-the-sun-starts-filming-in-greece-with-a-month-long-stay/|url-status=live}}{{Unreliable source?|reason=See reliable sources list on WP:KO/RS|date=February 2025}}{{cite web|title=Song Joong-ki, Song Hye-kyo in Greece for drama shoot|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201509301756204056611_2|work=K-pop Herald|access-date=September 30, 2015|date=September 30, 2015|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304100921/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201509301756204056611_2|url-status=live}} According to Greek and South Korean news portals and blogs, filming mainly took place in Zakynthos, Arachova, Lemnos, and Navagio.{{cite web|title=Descendants of the Sun filming in Greece|url=http://www.hancinema.net/hancinema-s-report-descendants-of-the-sun-filming-in-greece-87624.html|publisher=Hancinema|access-date=October 17, 2015|date=October 17, 2015|archive-date=April 9, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160409191822/http://www.hancinema.net/hancinema-s-report-descendants-of-the-sun-filming-in-greece-87624.html|url-status=live}} While the series' location was modelled after Iraq, the decision was made to locate the remote area torn by war at the margin of Balkan Peninsula to avoid diplomatic conflict with the Iraqis.{{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201603201144036538605_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=Uruk, backdrop of 'Descendants of the Sun,' inspired by Iraq|date=March 20, 2016|work=Kpop Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825234635/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201603201144036538605_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}

On November 25, 2015, it was announced that actor Song Joong-ki injured his arm while filming an action scene for the drama on November 23. On December 7, 2015, Song Joong-ki returned to work only 2 weeks after he was injured and spotted filming at a station in Seoul.{{cite web|url=http://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/article/article.aspx?aid=3012005|title=Song Joong-ki hurt while filming drama|date=November 26, 2015|work=Korea JoongAng Daily|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825231011/http://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/article/article.aspx?aid=3012005|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Song Joong Ki's Agency Updates Fans on His Injury|url=http://www.soompi.com/2015/11/27/song-joong-kis-agency-updates-fans-on-his-injury/|work=Soompi|access-date=December 14, 2015|date=November 27, 2015|archive-date=April 10, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160410010026/http://www.soompi.com/2015/11/27/song-joong-kis-agency-updates-fans-on-his-injury/|url-status=live}}{{Unreliable source?|reason=See reliable sources list on WP:KO/RS|date=February 2025}}{{cite web|title=Song Joong Ki returns to Descendants of the Sun despite injury|url=http://www.dramafever.com/news/song-joong-ki-returns-to-descendants-of-the-sun-despite-injury/|work=DramaFever|access-date=December 14, 2015|date=December 10, 2015|archive-url=https://archive.today/20160316030654/https://www.dramafever.com/news/song-joong-ki-returns-to-descendants-of-the-sun-despite-injury/|archive-date=March 16, 2016|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} The MERS-CoV outbreak in South Korea in 2015 also seriously hampered filming schedules. The outbreak claimed the lives of 33 people, according to WHO.{{cite web|url=https://www.who.int/csr/don/03-july-2015-mers-korea/en/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150704073513/http://www.who.int/csr/don/03-july-2015-mers-korea/en/|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 4, 2015|title=Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) – Republic of Korea|work=World Health Organization|date=July 3, 2015}}

The location which served as the Mowuru Company's base camp was set at the exhausted Taebaek Hanbo Coal Mine while earthquake scenes were mostly filmed at the Samtan Art Mine. Filming also took place at Camp Greaves DMZ Experience Centre, once a US Army base camp during the Korean War.{{cite web|url=http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_6.jsp?cid=2376985|title=Let's Discover Filming Sites from "Descendants of the Sun!"|date=October 17, 2016|work=VisitKorea.or.kr|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=July 10, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190710092933/http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_6.jsp?cid=2376985|url-status=dead}} Filming at Haesung Hospital was actually done at the Seoul St Mary's Hospital.

The crew wrapped up the last shoot in the early morning of December 30, 2015.{{cite web|title=Song Joong Ki and Song Hye Kyo Wrap Up Filming for "Descendants of the Sun"|url=http://www.soompi.com/2015/12/29/song-joong-ki-and-song-hye-kyo-wrap-up-filming-for-descendants-of-the-sun/|publisher=Soompi|access-date=January 5, 2016|date=December 29, 2015|archive-date=April 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160403123915/http://www.soompi.com/2015/12/29/song-joong-ki-and-song-hye-kyo-wrap-up-filming-for-descendants-of-the-sun/|url-status=live}}{{Unreliable source?|reason=See reliable sources list on WP:KO/RS|date=February 2025}} The director's cut, which feature a re-edited version of the last and 16th episode, as well as deleted scenes, a music video and behind-the-scenes footage, was released in the second half of the year.{{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201605311618362105272_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title='Descendants of the Sun' director's cut to be released|date=May 31, 2016|work=Kpop Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826032809/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201605311618362105272_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}

Due to the success of the drama, an OST concert was held at the Grand Peace Palace at Kyung Hee University in Seoul on May 14, 2016; and featured performers of the drama's soundtrack.{{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201604241716370665378_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title='Descendants of the Sun' concert lineup revealed|date=April 24, 2016|work=Kpop Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826032906/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201604241716370665378_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201605091508028402801_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=DOTS' OST concert partly revealed|date=May 9, 2016|work=Kpop Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826033022/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201605091508028402801_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}

After the success of Descendants of the Sun, the industry saw a shift toward pre-production of Korean dramas.{{cite web|url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160427004900315|title=Descendants of the Sun' transforms TV production in S. Korea|date=April 28, 2016|work=Yonhap News Agency|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826032201/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160427004900315|url-status=live}} This is because pre-production allowed producers to secure investment and distribution in a carefully planned fashion and allowed the show to air simultaneously in China, thus bringing greater profits.{{cite web|url=http://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/article/article.aspx?aid=3021019|title=Dramas get lift from pre-production|date=July 8, 2016|work=Korea JoongAng Daily|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=October 27, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201027135356/https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/article/Article.aspx?aid=3021019|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160318000782|title=Will 'Descendants' spur film-style TV drama production?|date=March 18, 2016|work=The Korea Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825234654/http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160318000782|url-status=live}} Kim Won-seok, co-writer of Descendants of the Sun, said the system helps raise the quality of the drama.{{cite web|url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/news/2016/04/23/0200000000AEN20160423002100315.html|title=Pre-production of 'Descendants of the Sun' raised drama's quality: writer|date=April 23, 2014|work=Yonhap News Agency|access-date=January 12, 2017|archive-date=January 18, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170118061613/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/news/2016/04/23/0200000000AEN20160423002100315.html|url-status=live}} However, apart from Descendants of the Sun, none of the other pre-produced dramas thus far such as Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo, Uncontrollably Fond, and Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth have been successful.{{cite web|url=https://variety.com/2017/tv/asia/korean-dramas-descendants-of-the-sun-pre-produced-format-1202019925/|title=Korean Dramas Adopt Pre-Produced Format to Mixed Results|work=Variety|date=April 3, 2017|access-date=December 13, 2017|archive-date=February 1, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180201034619/http://variety.com/2017/tv/asia/korean-dramas-descendants-of-the-sun-pre-produced-format-1202019925/|url-status=live}}

Production company NEW said that there have been hundreds of violations of their publicity rights by businesses, in an attempt to take advantage of the drama's success.{{cite web|url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160429002700315|title=Hundreds of businesses violate 'Descendants of the Sun' publicity rights: producers|date=April 29, 2016|work=Yonhap News Agency|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826032059/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160429002700315|url-status=live}} The announcement came about when lead actress Song Hye-kyo sued jewelry firm J.Estina for using her pictures for promotion though the contract ended in January.{{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201604271509586716589_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=Song Hye-kyo sues J.Estina for misappropriation|date=April 27, 2016|work=Yonhap News Agency|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826032939/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201604271509586716589_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}} J.Estina said in a press release that it abided by the contract with production staff of Descendants of the Sun, which allowed it to use stills from the episodes as one of the main sponsors of the series. However, NEW refuted the claims, saying that the jewelry firm's arguments lacked legal grounds.{{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201604281511261579354_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=J.Estina ups ante against Song Hye-kyo, NEW jumps into fray|date=April 28, 2016|work=Kpop Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826030701/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201604281511261579354_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}} Song Hye-kyo eventually won the legal battle and donated the damages received to charity.{{cite web|url=http://en.koreaportal.com/articles/24710/20161230/song-hye-kyo-donates-charity-money-won-legal-case.htm|title=Song Hye Kyo Donates Money Won From Legal Case To Charity|work=Korea Portal|date=December 30, 2016|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826031656/http://en.koreaportal.com/articles/24710/20161230/song-hye-kyo-donates-charity-money-won-legal-case.htm|url-status=live}}{{Unreliable source?|reason=See reliable sources list on WP:KO/RS|date=February 2025}}

The soundtrack of the series topped local music charts.{{cite web|url=https://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/03/398_199858.html|title=Songs from 'Descendants of the Sun' soundtrack rule music charts|date=March 18, 2016|work=The Korea Times|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825231821/http://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/03/398_199858.html|url-status=live}} Pre-orders for the soundtrack album surpassed the 10,000 mark,{{cite web|url=http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160323000329&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=Preorders surge for 'Descendants of the Sun' soundtrack|date=March 23, 2016|work=The Korea Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825233042/http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160323000329&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}} and eventually sold over 60,000 copies.{{cite web|url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160415007100315|title=Original soundtrack of 'Descendants of the Sun' sells 60,000 copies|date=April 15, 2016|work=Yonhap News Agency|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826031854/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160415007100315|url-status=live}}

{{Infobox album

| name = Descendants of the Sun
Original Soundtrack Vol. 1

| type = Soundtrack

| artist = Various Artists

| cover =

| alt =

| released = March 25, 2016

| recorded =

| venue =

| studio =

| genre = Soundtrack

| length =

| label = Music&NEW, OU Entertainment

| producer =

| prev_title =

| prev_year =

| next_title =

| next_year =

}}

{{track listing

| extra_column= Artist

| headline = Volume 1

| title1 = Always

| note1 =

| extra1 = Yoon Mi-rae

| length1 = 3:25

| title2 = Everytime{{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201602241352265677827_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=EXO's Chen, Punch sing in 'Descendants of the Sun' soundtrack|date=February 4, 2016|work=Kpop Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826032957/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201602241352265677827_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}

| note2 =

| extra2 = Chen and Punch

| length2 = 3:08

| title3 = This Love{{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201603031407111430329_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title='Descendant of the Sun' OST defeats 'Call You Bae' by Jimin, Xiumin|date=March 3, 2016|work=Kpop Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826032147/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201603031407111430329_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}

| note3 = 이 사랑

| extra3 = Davichi

| length3 = 3:46

| title4 = You Are My Everything{{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201603101548138821013_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=Gummy's 'Descendants of the Sun' OST sweeps local chart|date=March 10, 2016|work=Kpop Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826032942/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201603101548138821013_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}

| note4 =

| extra4 = Gummy

| length4 = 4:00

| title5 = Once Again

| note5 = 다시 너를

| extra5 = Kim Na-young feat. Mad Clown

| length5 = 3:55

| title6 = Save The Day

| note6 =

| extra6 = Various Artists

| length6 = 3:20

| title7 = Mission Part 1

| note7 =

| extra7 = Various Artists

| length7 = 4:25

| title8 = Time Is Running Out

| note8 =

| extra8 = Various Artists

| length8 = 3:29

| title9 = Hidden Genius

| note9 =

| extra9 = Various Artists

| length9 = 4:53

| title10 = Endless War

| note10 =

| extra10 = Various Artists

| length10 = 2:48

| title11 = My Everything

| note11 =

| extra11 = Various Artists

| length11 = 2:54

| title12 = Heart Break

| note12 =

| extra12 = Various Artists

| length12 = 4:16

| title13 = Military Dignity

| note13 =

| extra13 = Various Artists

| length13 = 2:08

| title14 = Mission Part 2

| note14 =

| extra14 = Various Artists

| length14 = 6:14

| title15 = I Love You

| note15 =

| extra15 = Various Artists

| length15 = 2:53

| title16 = Aroma

| note16 =

| extra16 = Various Artists

| length16 = 1:56

| title17 = War Of Tomorrow

| note17 =

| extra17 = Various Artists

| length17 = 3:58

| title18 = The Lover

| note18 =

| extra18 = Various Artists

| length18 = 3:25

| title19 = You're My Everything (English ver.)

| note19 =

| extra19 = Gummy

| length19 = 4:00

}}

{{Infobox album

| name = Descendants of the Sun
Original Soundtrack Vol. 2

| type = Soundtrack

| artist = Various Artists

| cover =

| alt =

| released = April 21, 2016

| recorded =

| venue =

| studio =

| genre = Soundtrack

| length =

| label = Music&NEW, OU Entertainment

| producer =

| prev_title =

| prev_year =

| next_title =

| next_year =

}}

{{track listing

| extra_column= Artist

| headline = Volume 2

| title1 = Talk Love

| note1 = 말해! 뭐해?

| extra1 = K.Will

| length1 = 3:37

| title2 = With You{{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201603221718546809227_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=Lyn to sing 'Descendants of the Sun' soundtrack|date=March 22, 2016|work=Kpop Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826030241/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201603221718546809227_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}

| note2 =

| extra2 = Lyn

| length2 = 4:15

| title3 = By My Side

| note3 = 사랑하자

| extra3 = SG Wannabe

| length3 = 3:46

| title4 = Wind Beneath Your Wings

| note4 = 그대, 바람이 되어

| extra4 = M.C the MAX

| length4 = 3:55

| title5 = How Can I Love You{{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201604141044183734349_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=Junsu tops charts with song in 'Descendants of the Sun'|date=April 14, 2016|work=Kpop Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826032848/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201604141044183734349_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}

| note5 =

| extra5 = XIA (Junsu)

| length5 = 4:20

| title6 = No More War

| note6 =

| extra6 = Various Artists

| length6 = 3:52

| title7 = Always I Love You

| note7 =

| extra7 = Various Artists

| length7 = 2:42

| title8 = Fighter

| note8 =

| extra8 = Various Artists

| length8 = 2:32

| title9 = Mission2 – Epic Tension

| note9 =

| extra9 = Various Artists

| length9 = 4:45

| title10 = Lonely Road

| note10 =

| extra10 = Various Artists

| length10 = 4:18

| title11 = Vital Fantasy

| note11 =

| extra11 = Various Artists

| length11 = 3:01

| title12 = Love You 2

| note12 =

| extra12 = Various Artists

| length12 = 2:58

| title13 = Don't Forget Me

| note13 =

| extra13 = Various Artists

| length13 = 3:30

| title14 = Time Is Running Out (Ver. 2)

| note14 =

| extra14 = Various Artists

| length14 = 3:41

| title15 = Attention (Mission ver.)

| note15 =

| extra15 = Various Artists

| length15 = 3:25

| title16 = Move Forward

| note16 =

| extra16 = Various Artists

| length16 = 3:41

| title17 = Freedom

| note17 =

| extra17 = Various Artists

| length17 = 3:40

| title18 = Attention O.R.I

| note18 =

| extra18 = Various Artists

| length18 = 1:51

}}

{{hidden begin

|title = Chart Performance

|titlestyle = background:#D8D8D8;

}}

{{hidden end}}

Descendants received immense popularity both locally, with a peaking rating of 40% in South Korea,{{cite web|url=https://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/04/398_202187.html|title='Descendants' sets viewership record of 40.4%|work=The Korea Times|date=April 8, 2016|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825233418/http://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/04/398_202187.html|url-status=live}} as well as internationally,{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-35888537|title=Descendants of the Sun: the Korean military romance sweeping Asia|date=March 26, 2016|work=BBC News|access-date=June 22, 2018|archive-date=April 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421203204/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-35888537|url-status=live}} where it has been sold to 32 countries and translated into 32 different languages.{{Cite news|url=http://isplus.live.joins.com/news/article/article.asp?total_id=19779914&cloc=|script-title=ko:[이슈is] '태후', 세계가 본다…판권 또 수출 '국민·국제 드라마'|trans-title=Descendants of the Sun has been exported 32 countries.|last=Park|first=Hyun-Taek|date=March 25, 2016|work=JoongAng Ilbo|language=ko|access-date=March 25, 2016|archive-date=April 15, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160415174123/http://isplus.live.joins.com/news/article/article.asp?total_id=19779914&cloc=|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/03/398_200970.html|title='Descendants of the Sun' available in 32 languages|work=The Korea Times|date=March 23, 2016|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825233328/http://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/03/398_200970.html|url-status=live}} The success of the drama helped strengthen the Hallyu wave, boosting tourism and spreading Korean culture.{{cite web|url=https://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/12/398_220835.html|title='Descendants of the Sun' sets new standards for K-dramas in 2016|work=The Korea Times|date=December 25, 2016|access-date=January 25, 2017|archive-date=February 2, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170202030811/http://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/12/398_220835.html|url-status=live}} The series was also watched in North Korea, one of the most secluded countries in the world.{{cite web|url=https://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/04/398_202262.html|title=Even N. Korea watches 'Descendants of the Sun'|work=The Korea Times|date=April 20, 2017|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825233206/http://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/04/398_202262.html|url-status=live}}

The drama's success factors were attributed to its elaborate screenplay, beautiful love story and the co-production between South Korea and China.{{cite web|url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160322008100315|title=(Yonhap Interview) Story, co-production behind success of 'Descendants of the Sun' in China|date=March 22, 2016|work=Yonhap News Agency|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826032518/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160322008100315|url-status=live}} The Korea Times said, "At a time when Korean melodramas are said to have been losing steam, 'Descendants of the Sun' brought fantasy together with a number of different genres to create a high quality production." and "the drama appeals to viewers' desires for justice in a society that appears to lack it." Chinese Government mouthpiece People's Daily praised it as "an excellent advertisement for conscription" showcasing South Korea's "national spirit" and "communitarian culture".{{cite web|url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160322009800315|title=Fever over S. Korea's hit TV drama gets attention of China's military|date=March 22, 2016|work=Yonhap News Agency|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826032411/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160322009800315|url-status=live}} The drama also earned plaudits from (former) president Park Geun-hye, who praised the drama for instilling "patriotism" among young Koreans.{{cite web|url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160321013300315|title=Park says 'Descendants of the Sun' will help attract foreign tourists|date=March 21, 2016|work=Yonhap News Agency|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826032610/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160321013300315|url-status=live}} She also called Descendants an exemplary case of the positive effects of cultural content on the manufacturing industry.{{cite web|url=http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160411000946&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=Park: 'Descendants of the Sun' exemplary case of cultural enhancement|date=April 11, 2016|work=The Korea Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825234645/http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160411000946&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}

In China, iQiyi bought the exclusive rights to stream the show for US$250,000 per episode which, in total, is equivalent to about 40% of the show's production costs. The show was released simultaneously in South Korea and China, the first Korean drama to do so, and was viewed 2.4 billion times by April 2016.{{cite web|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnkang/2016/04/05/korean-drama-descendants-of-the-sun-breaks-records-thanks-to-chinese-investments/#4659703c4b27|title=Korean Drama 'Descendants Of The Sun' Breaks Records Thanks To Chinese Investments|work=Forbes|date=April 5, 2016|access-date=August 26, 2017|archive-date=June 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200613101945/https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnkang/2016/04/05/korean-drama-descendants-of-the-sun-breaks-records-thanks-to-chinese-investments/#4659703c4b27|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.google.com.ph/search?site=&source=hp&ei=2jNqWOmiLtLo0gTyo4SACg&q=descendants+viewed+2.3+billion+times+asiaone&oq=descendants+viewed+2.3+billion+times+asiaone&gs_l=mobile-gws-hp.3...781.13721.0.13973.54.33.0.0.0.0.968.968.6-1.1.0....0...1c.1j4.64.mobile-gws-hp..54.0.0...0j41.RRwD6DFEQr8#xxri=0|title=Chinese love for Descendants of the Sun hits 2.4 billion views in latest episode|work=AsiaOne|access-date=January 2, 2017|archive-date=February 5, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210205100140/https://www.google.com.ph/search?site=&source=hp&ei=2jNqWOmiLtLo0gTyo4SACg&q=descendants+viewed+2.3+billion+times+asiaone&oq=descendants+viewed+2.3+billion+times+asiaone&gs_l=mobile-gws-hp.3...781.13721.0.13973.54.33.0.0.0.0.968.968.6-1.1.0....0...1c.1j4.64.mobile-gws-hp..54.0.0...0j41.RRwD6DFEQr8#xxri=0|url-status=live}} The success of the drama was credited for driving up the paid membership of iQiyi.{{cite web|url=http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160704000787&ACE_SEARCH=1|title='Descendants of the Sun' spurs jump in iQiyi subscribers|date=July 4, 2016|work=The Korea Heral|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825232511/http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160704000787&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}} Also the reports have claimed that the drama was sold for US$100,000 per episode in Japan.{{cite web|url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/national/2016/03/17/0301000000AEN20160317003200315.html?51b96728|title='Descendants of the Sun' to premiere in Japan|work=Yonhap News Agency|access-date=March 25, 2016|archive-date=April 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160404183535/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/national/2016/03/17/0301000000AEN20160317003200315.html?51b96728|url-status=live}}

The drama's success helped boost Korea's economy; contributing in a rise of tourists, overseas sales of products (exports), and creating new jobs. Descendants has been reported to have earned 3 billion won from product placement advertisements (PPL) and 10 billion won from sales of related sound tracks and video-on-demand service.{{cite web|url=https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/culture/2016/04/386_201794.html|title=New hallyu dawns on 'Descendants of the Sun'|date=April 3, 2016|work=The Korea Times|access-date=May 3, 2017|archive-date=June 5, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170605223420/http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/culture/2016/04/386_201794.html|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160415000533&ACE_SEARCH=1|title='Descendants of the Sun' secures 12.2 bln won worth of ad deals|date=April 17, 2016|work=The Korea Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825234745/http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160415000533&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}} According to reports, the direct and indirect economic effects of Descendants are estimated to hover above 1 trillion won ($880 million).{{cite web|url=http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160429000288&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=Mega-hit Korean drama creates huge economic effect|date=May 1, 2016|work=The Korea Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825234913/http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160429000288&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}

The "Two Tone Lip Bar" lipstick that Song Hye-kyo wore in a scene on the show has broken sales records for Aritaum in South Korea with Laneige subsequently hosting its own Descendants of the Sun makeup event on its homepage. The product became so popular that it sold out four days after its release on the popular Chinese shopping website, 11th Street, owned by its Korean parent-company, SK Planet.{{cite web|url=http://www.sweetnara.com/song-hye-kyo-makeup-beauty-descendants-of-the-sun-kang-mo-yeon-laneige-two-tone-lipstick/|title=Song Hye-Kyo Makeup Beauty : Descendants of the Sun Kang Mo Yeon Laneige Two Tone Lipstick|date=April 1, 2016|website=SweetNara|access-date=April 11, 2016|archive-date=April 10, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160410171805/http://www.sweetnara.com/song-hye-kyo-makeup-beauty-descendants-of-the-sun-kang-mo-yeon-laneige-two-tone-lipstick/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.yeongnam.com/mnews/newsview.do?mode=newsView&newskey=20160404.990010803290544|script-title=ko:'태양의 후예' 중국대륙 삼키다, 송중기 황치열 특집 기사 봇물 '송혜교 상품'은 동났다|website=Yeongnam Ilbo|date=April 4, 2016 |access-date=April 11, 2016|language=ko|archive-date=September 14, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160914065125/http://www.yeongnam.com/mnews/newsview.do?mode=newsView&newskey=20160404.990010803290544|url-status=live}} The same product also experienced "double digit growth" in Singapore.{{cite web|url=http://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/entertainment/fans-say-yes-to-descendants-of-the-suns-finale|title=What Singapore fans think of Descendants Of The Sun's finale|work=The Straits Times|date=April 16, 2016|access-date=May 3, 2017|archive-date=June 11, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170611141225/http://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/entertainment/fans-say-yes-to-descendants-of-the-suns-finale|url-status=live}}

Laneige, Dal.Komm Coffee, KGC Cheong Kwan Jang Korean Red Ginseng, Subway and Hyundai all reported a surge in sales after exposure of their products in the drama.{{cite web|url=http://www.marketing-interactive.com/descendants-of-the-sun-shines-bright-for-brands/|title=Descendants of the Sun shines bright for brands|work=Marketing Interactive|date=April 21, 2016|access-date=December 7, 2016|archive-date=December 1, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161201130525/http://www.marketing-interactive.com/descendants-of-the-sun-shines-bright-for-brands/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=2016033100660&ACE_SEARCH=1|title='Descendants of the Sun' buoys Korean economy|date=March 31, 2016|work=The Korea Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825234718/http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=2016033100660&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}} The popularity of the show has also led to KBS launching several merchandise of the drama, such as cookies, memory sticks, emoticons and commemorative medals, which were specially created and sold to fans.{{cite web|url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160406009500315|title=KBS makes 'Descendants of the Sun' cookies|date=April 6, 2016|work=The Korea Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826030853/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160406009500315|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/04/398_202421.html|title='Descendants of the Sun' stars get role on memory sticks|date=April 12, 2016|work=The Korea Times|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826025953/http://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/04/398_202421.html|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/04/398_202566.html|title=Emoticons of 'Descendants of the Sun' characters released|date=April 14, 2016|work=The Korea Times|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825232405/http://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/04/398_202566.html|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201612071720137513459_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=Song-Song couple medals to go on sale|date=December 7, 2016|work=Kpop Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825234850/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201612071720137513459_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}

Filming locations and sets of the show underwent restoration by the government, due to the demands by both local and foreign tourists.{{cite web|url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160331010100315|title=Gov't to turn 'Descendants of the Sun' filming sites into tourist destinations|date=March 31, 2016|work=Yonhap News Agency|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826031553/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160331010100315|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160420000812&ACE_SEARCH=1|title='Descendants of the Sun' filming set to be rebuilt|date=April 20, 2016|work=The Korea Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825234911/http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160420000812&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}} Camp Greaves, the former U.S. military camp near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in Paju, north of Seoul, was turned into a park composed of separate zones focusing on natural scenery, culture and arts, and military experience.{{cite web|url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160403001500315|title=Filming site of 'Descendants of the Sun' to be turned into park|date=April 3, 2016|work=Yonhap News Agency|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826031417/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160403001500315|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/article/article.aspx?aid=3017661|title=Hit drama gets its own park, too|date=April 18, 2016|work=Korea JoongAng Daily|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826030141/http://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/article/article.aspx?aid=3017661|url-status=live}} The Taebak film site was also re-modeled as a tourist site, where visitors can browse the medical camp and military base wearing costumes with the same design as those worn by the cast.{{cite web|url=https://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/08/398_211763.html|title=Production site of 'Descendants of the Sun' opens as tourist attraction|website=The Korea Times|date=August 12, 2016|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825233322/http://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/08/398_211763.html|url-status=live}}

The set in Taebaek was featured on popular variety shows 2 Days & 1 Night{{cite news|title="2 Days & 1 Night" Airs "Descendants Of The Sun" Themed Episode|url=https://www.soompi.com/2016/09/11/2-days-1-night-airs-descendants-sun-themed-episode/|publisher=Soompi|date=September 11, 2016|access-date=June 20, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825234558/https://www.soompi.com/2016/09/11/2-days-1-night-airs-descendants-sun-themed-episode/|url-status=live}}{{Unreliable source?|reason=See reliable sources list on WP:KO/RS|date=February 2025}}{{Cite episode|title=Trip 215: Drama Road|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=poN4fSDirgE|series=2 Days & 1 Night|network=KBS2|date=September 18, 2016|season=3|access-date=June 20, 2017|archive-date=September 18, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160918135653/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=poN4fSDirgE&gl=US&hl=en|url-status=live}} and Battle Trip.{{Cite episode|title=Episode 1|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OuYOFudORNk|series=Battle Trip|network=KBS2|date=April 16, 2016|season=1|access-date=June 20, 2017|archive-date=May 20, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160520140603/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OuYOFudORNk&gl=US&hl=en|url-status=live}} Navagio, one of the iconic locations where the "relationship between the lead characters blossom", experienced a surge in popularity among Chinese and Korean tourists.{{cite news|url=https://www.allkpop.com/article/2016/03/tourists-flock-to-this-country-to-stand-where-song-joong-ki-and-song-hye-kyo-stood-in-descendants-of-the-sun|title=Tourists flock to this country to stand where Song Joong Ki and Song Hye Kyo stood in 'Descendants of the Sun'|publisher=Allkpop|date=26 March 2016|access-date=2018-07-06|archive-date=April 2, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190402042918/https://www.allkpop.com/article/2016/03/tourists-flock-to-this-country-to-stand-where-song-joong-ki-and-song-hye-kyo-stood-in-descendants-of-the-sun|url-status=live}}{{Unreliable source?|reason=See reliable sources list on WP:KO/RS|date=February 2025}}{{cite web|url=https://www.dramafever.com/news/youd-be-surprised-by-how-many-locations-made-up-the-descendants-of-the-suns-fictional-country-of-uruk/%257B%255B%257Bnotification.object.url%257D%255D%257D|title=You'd be surprised by how many real locations made up Descendants of the Sun's fictional country of Uruk|publisher=DramaFever|date=27 April 2016|access-date=2018-07-06|df=mdy-all}}{{dead link|date=March 2020|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}{{cite news|url=http://koreabizwire.com/latest-drama-hit-creates-new-travel-boom/51909|title=Latest Drama Hit Creates New Travel Boom|publisher=The Korea Bizwire|date=26 March 2016|access-date=2018-07-06|archive-date=December 31, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181231095735/http://koreabizwire.com/latest-drama-hit-creates-new-travel-boom/51909|url-status=live}}

The success of the drama has given rise to the popularity of "soldier talk", a style of Korean speaking only used in the military.{{cite web|url=https://www.dramafever.com/news/descendants-of-the-sun-fans-are-learning-how-korean-soldiers-talk/|title=How to speak like the Korean soldiers in Descendants of the Sun|date=April 27, 2016|work=DramaFever|access-date=August 25, 2017|df=mdy-all}}{{dead link|date=March 2020|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}} There is also a spike in the number of young men wanting to join South Korean special forces units for their mandatory military service.{{cite web|url=http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160529000193&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=Popularity of hallyu drama spurs rush to become special forces NCO|date=May 29, 2016|work=The Korea Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825233855/http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160529000193&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}

The popularity of the series in China caused concern with the country's Ministry of Public Security, posting a warning on its official Weibo account against the drama warning viewers "watching Korean dramas could be dangerous, and even lead to legal troubles".{{cite web|url=https://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/03/398_200395.html|title='Descendants of the Sun' a real threat to Chinese couples|date=March 15, 2016|work=The Korea Times|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825232920/http://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/03/398_200395.html|url-status=live}} It was part of a growing concern among Chinese officials at the time who were wary of the growing influence of Korean pop culture on the Chinese populace since the similar success of My Love from the Star which aired in 2014.{{cite web|url=http://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/entertainment/korean-government-warns-of-dangers-of-korean-dramas-as-descendants-of-the|title=Chinese government warns of dangers of Korean dramas as Descendants Of The Sun hits 440m views in China|work=The Straits Times|date=March 14, 2016|access-date=March 17, 2016|archive-date=April 17, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160417012108/http://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/entertainment/korean-government-warns-of-dangers-of-korean-dramas-as-descendants-of-the|url-status=live}} When Samgyetang (a Korean chicken soup) was featured in the drama, it gained wider appeal among the Chinese.{{cite web|url=http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160726000317&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=Korean chicken soup set to make inroads into China|date=July 26, 2016|work=The Korea Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825234926/http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160726000317&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://english.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2016/04/11/2016041101239.html|title=Hit Drama to Boost Exports of Korean Chicken-Ginseng Soup to China|date=April 11, 2016|work=The Chosun Ilbo|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826030736/http://english.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2016/04/11/2016041101239.html|url-status=live}}

During its run in Singapore, it was the most-watched show on OTT video streaming provider Viu in the country and enjoyed ratings as high as 31.8%.{{cite web|url=http://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/entertainment/descendants-of-the-sun-hot-hot-hot|title=Descendants Of The Sun: Hot, hot, hot|author=GWENDOLYN NG|work=The Straits Times|date=March 20, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200217162500/https://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/entertainment/descendants-of-the-sun-hot-hot-hot|archive-date=February 17, 2020|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/viusingapore/photos/a.1673767239505389.1073741829.1657589804456466/1704740743074705/?type=3&theater|title=Viu Singapore – #DescendantsOfTheSun hits a new tv rating|work=VIU Singapore Facebook|access-date=March 17, 2016|archive-date=March 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200316040444/https://www.facebook.com/viusingapore/photos/a.1673767239505389.1073741829.1657589804456466/1704740743074705/?type=3&theater=|url-status=live}} Statistics from March 2016 showed about 60% of users on Viu had tuned in to watch the drama.{{cite web|author=Gwendolyn Ng |url=http://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/entertainment/descendants-of-the-sun-star-song-joong-ki-it-feels-natural-for-me-to-be-in-a |title=Descendants Of The Sun star Song Joong Ki: "It feels natural for me to be in a soldier's uniform" |work=The Straits Times |date=April 5, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200217162500/https://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/entertainment/descendants-of-the-sun-star-song-joong-ki-it-feels-natural-for-me-to-be-in-a|archive-date=February 17, 2020|url-status=live}} In the week following its finale, eight songs from the drama's soundtrack occupied the top 10, including the top six positions, of Singapore's Top 30 Singles chart.{{cite web|url=http://musicweekly.asia/charts/top-30-singles-singapore |title=Music Weekly AsiaTop 30 Singles Chart Singapore – Music Weekly Asia |work=Music Weekly Asia |date=April 24, 2016|url-status=bot: unknown |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160424095350/http://musicweekly.asia/charts/top-30-singles-singapore |archive-date=April 24, 2016}} The show was also dubbed in Hindi and telecasted on Indian TV Channel, Zindagi and became one of the first K-dramas to be available on a widely known Indian cable network. The popularity of the show drew 8000 tourists from Vietnam, who signed up for tour packages to visit major sightseeing areas and filming locations of Descendants.{{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201611081203415706518_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=Popular Korean drama draws travelers from Vietnam|date=November 8, 2016|work=Kpop Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826033028/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201611081203415706518_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}} Prior to the airing of the show, there was a debate on whether it's appropriate for Vietnamese to watch it given the alleged atrocities committed by Korean soldiers against civilians during the Vietnam War.{{cite web |url=https://asiatimes.com/2016/04/descendants-of-the-sun-stirs-debate-over-korean-atrocities-in-vietnam/ |title='Descendants of the Sun' stirs debate over Korean atrocities in Vietnam |work=The Asia Times |date=April 2, 2016 |access-date=April 17, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200321010325/https://asiatimes.com/2016/04/descendants-of-the-sun-stirs-debate-over-korean-atrocities-in-vietnam/ |archive-date=March 21, 2020 |url-status=live }}{{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201603311423574036234_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=Vietnamese journalist blasts 'Descendants of the Sun'|date=March 31, 2016|work=Kpop Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826032838/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201603311423574036234_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}

While prior to the screening of the drama in Thailand, Prayut Chan-o-cha, the prime minister of Thailand, called for citizens of Thailand to watch the drama claiming it conveys messages of "patriotism, sacrifice, obeying orders and being a dutiful citizen".{{cite web |url=https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/culture/2016/03/386_200662.html |title=Thai PM calls on people to watch 'Descendants of the Sun' |work=The Korea Times |date=March 18, 2016 |access-date=April 25, 2016 |archive-date=April 25, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160425094917/http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/culture/2016/03/386_200662.html |url-status=live }} The drama's lead star, Song Joong-ki, was invited to Thailand by Yuthasak Supasorn, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.{{cite web|url=https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/culture/2016/03/386_201077.html|title=Song Joong-ki gets invitation to visit Thailand|date=March 24, 2016|work=The Korea Times|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825233327/http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/culture/2016/03/386_201077.html|url-status=live}} He visited the country to promote the drama as part of his Asia tour.{{cite web|url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/culturesports/2016/05/09/29/0701000000AEN20160509003300315F.html|title=Actor Song Joong-ki enjoys unrivaled popularity in Thailand|date=May 9, 2016|work=Yonhap News Agency|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825235009/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/culturesports/2016/05/09/29/0701000000AEN20160509003300315F.html|url-status=live}} Song-Song couple also attended a promotional event for the premiere of the drama in Hong Kong.{{cite web|url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160405008100315|title='Descendants of the Sun' holds promotion in Hong Kong|date=April 5, 2016|work=Yonhap News Agency|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826031636/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160405008100315|url-status=live}} There it recorded over 1.2 million views on ViuTV.{{cite web |url=http://www.marketing-interactive.com/viu-app-nets-1-2m-downloads-hong-kong/ |title=Viu app nets 1.2m downloads in Hong Kong |work=Marketing Interactive |date=April 12, 2016 |access-date=December 7, 2016 |archive-date=October 13, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161013143407/http://www.marketing-interactive.com/viu-app-nets-1-2m-downloads-hong-kong/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201604061328329395707_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title='Descendants of the Sun' to air in Hong Kong|date=April 6, 2016|work=Kpop Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826032952/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201604061328329395707_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}

In late 2016, Google Trends revealed that in 2016 most people in Sri Lanka searched for "Descendants of the Sun" rather than "Donald Trump" which stood in stark contrast to most of the world.{{cite web |url=https://www.techinasia.com/google-asia-search-trends-2016 |title=Asia's most popular Google searches this year |publisher=Tech in Asia |access-date=2018-11-29 |archive-date=November 9, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171109022737/https://www.techinasia.com/google-asia-search-trends-2016 |url-status=live }} There the drama is available to stream on Iflix with Sinhalese and English subtitles.{{cite web |url=https://m.iflix.com/title/show/6048 |title=Descendants of the Sun |publisher=Iflix |access-date=2019-01-27 |archive-date=December 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231208031907/https://www.iflix.com/ |url-status=live }} The drama also contributed to the rise of tourism in Greece, where scenes of the drama were shot.{{cite web|url=https://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/03/398_200865.html|title=Latest drama hit creates new travel boom|date=March 22, 2016|work=The Korea Times|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825231824/http://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/03/398_200865.html|url-status=live}} Additionally it enjoyed popularity in the United States, where the drama was the most-searched on video streaming website Viki.{{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201603231753393136721_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title='Descendants of the Sun' going viral in North America|date=March 23, 2016|work=Kpop Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826032559/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201603231753393136721_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}} The drama was also broadcast around the world on KBS World with English subtitles;{{cite web |url=http://kbsworld.kbs.co.kr/schedule/schedule_tv.php |title=KBSWORLD -Weekly Schedule |work=KBS World |access-date=December 7, 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161119050753/http://kbsworld.kbs.co.kr/schedule/schedule_tv.php |archive-date=November 19, 2016 |df=mdy-all }} and due to its popularity the drama was put up for streaming worldwide on Netflix.{{cite web|url=http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201606301659521161390_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|title=Netflix plans to expand presence in Korea|date=June 30, 2016|work=Kpop Herald|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826033015/http://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201606301659521161390_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}

Although the show received a mostly positive critical reception, several critics criticised the allegedly excessive use of product placement in Descendants of the Sun, arguing that it undermined the plot and distracted viewers from key scenes. In response to the criticism, series cinematographer Kim Si-hyoung admitted that the use of product placement was excessive but argued they were an "essential" source of funding as the show's producers found it difficult to secure funding from television advertisements.{{Cite web|last=Son|first=Ji-hyoung|title='Descendants of the Sun' cinematographer admits product placement excessive|url=https://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201604191305576133179_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|magazine=The Korea Herald|date=19 April 2016|access-date=10 February 2023|archive-date=February 10, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230210141310/https://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201604191305576133179_2&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}} The show also drew criticism for what was perceived as an unconvincing, predictable plot and unrealistic storyline.{{Cite web|last=Ko|first=Dong-hwan|title='Descendants' marred by unrealistic storyline, PPL|url=https://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/04/398_202690.html|magazine=The Korea Herald|date=15 April 2016|access-date=10 February 2023|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825232129/http://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/04/398_202690.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|last=Park|first=Sojung|title=While triumphant, 'Descendants of the Sun' leaves mixed legacy|url=https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20160415004600315|magazine=Yonhap News Agency|date=15 April 2016|access-date=10 February 2023|archive-date=February 10, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230210141309/https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20160415004600315|url-status=live}} Other critics argued that the drama promoted inaccurate perceptions of modern-day South Korean society, such as the existence of a cohesive military culture, and implicitly espoused nationalist and patriarchal values. The show's depiction of women was also criticised for perceived sexist overtones as well.{{Cite web|first=Da-yeong|last=Lee|title='Descendants of the Sun': more fantasy than reality|url=http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160408000920&ACE_SEARCH=1|magazine=The Korea Herald|date=8 April 2016|access-date=10 February 2023|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825233318/http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160408000920&ACE_SEARCH=1|url-status=live}}

A debate in Vietnam over the decision to air the series in the country occurred after a journalist argued that it was inappropriate for Vietnamese audiences to watch a show about the South Korean military given the numerous war crimes it perpetrated during the Vietnam War. Tuổi Trẻ journalist Tran Quang Thi stated in a Facebook post that "During the Vietnam War, Korean troops spread terror in a number of regions in the country, not among the army, but among innocent civilians. Some villages were completely wiped out by Korean troops. I believe if the victims' souls were still around and watched the Korean drama it would break their hearts... No one even thinks about Korean or Chinese TV airing a film that praises Japanese soldiers out of respect for them as victims of World War II."{{Cite web|first=Bahk|last=Eun-ji|title='Descendants of the Sun' brings back bad memories in Vietnam|url=https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/culture/2016/04/386_201590.html|magazine=The Korea Herald|date=31 March 2016|access-date=10 February 2023|archive-date=February 10, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230210132130/https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/culture/2016/04/386_201590.html|url-status=live}}

{{Main|List of awards and nominations received by Descendants of the Sun}}

A Chinese film adaptation produced by Huace Film & TV and directed by Zhang Yibai is planned.{{cite web|url= http://chinafilminsider.com/hit-korean-tv-drama-descendants-remade-chinese-film/|title= Hit Korean TV Drama 'Descendants' to be Remade as Chinese Film|first= Fergus|last= Ryan|date= July 5, 2016|access-date= July 6, 2016|work= China Film Insider|archive-date= May 21, 2021|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20210521111457/http://chinafilminsider.com/hit-korean-tv-drama-descendants-remade-chinese-film/|url-status= live}} A book based on the script is also planned for release.{{cite web|url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160422001900315|title='Descendants of the Sun' to meet fans as movie, book|date=April 22, 2016|work=Yonhap News Agency|access-date=August 25, 2017|archive-date=August 26, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826031803/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/search1/2603000000.html?cid=AEN20160422001900315|url-status=live}}

A Philippine television adaptation produced by GMA Network was aired from February 10 to December 25, 2020, for 65 episodes.{{cite web|url=https://www.pep.ph/pepalerts/142980/jennylyn-mercado-rocco-nacino-at-jasmine-curtis-smith-a734-20190501|title=Main cast ng Pinoy version ng Descendants of the Sun, kumpleto na|website=Philippine Entertainment Portal|date=May 1, 2019|access-date=May 23, 2021|archive-date=May 1, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190501095510/https://www.pep.ph/pepalerts/142980/jennylyn-mercado-rocco-nacino-at-jasmine-curtis-smith-a734-20190501|url-status=live}}

A Vietnamese television adaptation titled "Hậu duệ mặt trời" was aired in September 2018 for 48 episodes.{{cite web|title=Vietnam broadcaster under fire for drama based on 'Descendants of the Sun'|url=https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/art/2018/11/688_256963.html|website=The Korea Times|date=October 14, 2018 |access-date=October 14, 2018|archive-date=November 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181124062807/http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/art/2018/11/688_256963.html|url-status=live}}

{{Reflist}}

{{commons category|Descendants of the Sun}}

• {{Official website|https://program.kbs.co.kr/2tv/drama/sun/pc/index.html}} {{in lang|ko}}
• {{KBS World TV program|990}}
• {{hancinema drama|The_Descendant_of_the_Sun|Descendants of the Sun}}
• {{IMDb title|4925000}}

{{Kim Eun-sook}}

{{Paeksang Arts Award Grand Prize Television}}

{{Korea Drama Awards Best Drama}}

Category:Korean Broadcasting System television dramas

Category:2016 South Korean television series debuts

Category:2016 South Korean television series endings

Category:South Korean military television series

Category:Television shows written by Kim Eun-sook

Category:South Korean romance television series

Category:South Korean pre-produced television series

Category:South Korean television series remade in other languages

Category:Television series by Next Entertainment World

Category:Television series set in fictional countries

Category:Korean-language television shows