‘The Early Spring’ Blooms at No. 2 on Netflix’s Global Non-English TV List

Jing Bo-ran and Sun Qian's irresistible chemistry has propelled the Chinese-language workplace romance The Early Spring to global success since its premiere on August 26. Directed by Chiang Chi-cheng ( Had I Not Seen the Sun ) and written and produced by Gao Xiao-xian, the series follows brilliant corporate executive Luke Luan (Jing Bo-ran) and Flora Shang (Sun Qian), a passionate and sincere newcomer finding her footing in the corporate world. As they navigate the pressures of a fast-paced workplace, the pair must also keep their secret office romance from unraveling everything they have worked for.

In the week of August 24-30, The Early Spring debuted at No. 2 on Netflix's Global Non-English TV list, garnering 2.4 million views and 21.5 million hours viewed. The series has since ignited widespread conversation, breaking into the weekly Top 10 ranking in 22 markets including Indonesia, Malaysia, Brazil, Venezuela, Qatar, and more. The series also tops Netflix's weekly TV charts in Thailand, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Vietnam.

Audiences have been swept up in the slow-burning tension and intimate moments between Jing Bo-ran and Sun Qian, whose effortless chemistry brings a refreshingly nuanced portrayal of grown-up love to the screen.

Jing Bo-ran stars as Luke Luan, a sharp-tongued creative director whose sophistication and magnetic screen presence have earned him the title of "ultimate heartthrob" among viewers. Producer and screenwriter Gao Xiao-xian praised the actor's dedication: "Jing Bo-ran always comes prepared. Before filming, we would discuss the character's emotional journey in detail." Jing also carefully planned Luke's styling, bringing in pieces from his own wardrobe and securing support from major brands to capture the character's fashion-forward image. He also worked out almost every day for the role.

Sun Qian plays Flora Shang, a workplace newcomer whose complicated relationship with her boss, Luke, is a highlight of the series. She admitted, "I hadn't filmed many intimate scenes before, so I was initially shy and nervous. Our intimacy coordinator helped make the process more comfortable and natural. The most memorable was the 'body charades' scene. My mind nearly went blank while filming it!"

Her natural screen presence, expressive performance and nuanced acting have also drawn praise from viewers. Sun shared, "Like Flora, I'm from Harbin and moved to Beijing to pursue my career. Her story spans ten years, and this is also my tenth year in the industry. I felt deeply connected to her journey." Sun thanked viewers, saying, "I hope you draw strength from this brave, resilient and hardworking young woman."

Viewers have praised the pair as the "perfect casting" for Luke and Flora. On Jing and Sun's chemistry, Director Chiang shared, "Their contrast and chemistry feel completely natural. They are not a conventional idol-drama couple and have a distinctive presence and emotional rhythm of their own."

Producer and screenwriter Gao explained that finding actors who both embodied the original characters and could convey their emotional depth was the team's top priority. She praised Jing for capturing Luke's polished, sophisticated charm, and Sun for bringing both youthful spirit and mature poise to Flora's journey of growth.

Director Chiang also shared his vision for The Early Spring : "I wanted to create something different from a conventional romance drama, from its visual style and character dynamics to its portrayal of intimacy, and explore love from a more mature perspective. I never expected the series to resonate with so many viewers, so the response has been incredibly rewarding."

The romance is still in its early spring with more yet to bloom. The first 13 episodes of The Early Spring are now streaming globally on Netflix, with more episodes coming soon.

Download Top 10 artwork and unit stills here .

About The Early Spring

• Director: Chiang Chi-cheng

• Producer and screenwriter : Gao Xiao-xian

• Cast: Jing Bo-ran, Sun Qian

• Launch date: August 26, 2026

• No. of episodes： 24 (13 episodes now streaming)

• Title page ： https://www.netflix.com/title/83067197

Synopsis: Spanning a decade of longing, conflict and transformation, The Early Spring follows gifted creative maverick Luke Luan and ambitious newcomer Flora Shang, whose mutual admiration ignites a forbidden office romance. Drawn together yet repeatedly pulled apart by the pressures of city life, they navigate heartbreak, difficult choices and personal growth. As Flora comes into her own and Luke lowers his defenses, they learn to heal, meet as equals and write a new ending together.