The First Frost

''The First Frost'' ( zh, s=难哄) is a 2025 romantic Chinese television drama starring Bai Jingting and Zhang Ruonan. The plot is adapted from the Chinese novel of the same name by Zhu Yi, and is released on Youku and Netflix worldwide. It tells the story of two high school classmates' reunion, after long separation, when they accidentally rent the same apartment. It delves into the complexities of love, longing, trauma and healing.

During its release, Bai Jingting and Zhang Ruonan were ranked 'Top C-Drama artists in the International Market'. Bai's role as "SangYan" was popular and ranked 1st in 'Character Index List'. The series sets record of reaching fastest 10K 'Popularity Heat Index' points within 2 days of its release in Youku. It became highest viewed online series in first half of the year, and set a new record for contemporary idol dramas with over 24 B views across all platforms.

The series received widespread acclaim, topping charts and setting many records, with the leads' chemistry and engaging storytelling earning positive reviews from audiences and critics. By 10 March 2025, it has exceeded 1.2 B viewership on Youku and 2 B on Douyin; it became the 'Hottest Youth Idol C-drama' at the beginning of the year. By mid-year, the series with a record 3.5 B views was ranked 1st on Xiaohongshu. It was ranked in the S+ Tier i.e. 'Top Performing Shows' on Yunhe Chart. On 27 February 2025, it was ranked 6th in 'Netflix Top TV Show Worldwide', and has set a record for the highest ranked C-drama in 'Netflix Global' daily ranking history.

Plot

Wen Yifan accidentally runs into Sang Yan at a bar after six years. The two were high school classmates and she once had a crush on him. However, she was driven to reject his feelings, causing them to drift apart. To avoid the awkwardness, they pretend not to know each other. Due to circumstances, they are compelled to confront each other when they end up sharing the same roof. The nature of their relationship changes, when Wen Yifan learns that she's sleepwalking again. Her condition escalates due to some past family trauma and she finds herself in Sang Yan's room, which further intertwines their lives.

Cast

Reception

''The First Frost'' was one of the most anticipated series in 2025. The first poster of the main casts in character and the teaser were well received by the audience. It became Youku's fastest growing hit series since 2024, and entered Netflix's Top 10 in Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and Taiwan within a week of its release. Before its release, the series collected over 8M reservations with its first look in the upcoming Youku romantic C-drama list, and was ranked 1st in the 'Top 5 Popularity List Drama'. It was ranked 1st in 'Most Searched Romantic Show' within a week. It gained popularity in both national and international markets, which led to its first merchandise pop-up store in Taiwan.

Gulf News praises stating that "''The First Frost'' is a more mature, emotionally intense journey. Bai Jingting bringing a quiet intensity that makes Sang Yan's pain all the more palpable. Zhang Ruonan delivers a powerful performance as Wen Yifan, whose guarded nature hides layers of emotional turmoil. The emotional depth where every moment is loaded with meaningful, rather than grand romantic gestures. The dual-perspective storytelling, adds a compelling layer to the narrative, showing how perception and emotions shape their interactions." Indiatimes states that "The non-linear storytelling, seamlessly transitioning from their high-school desk to their now shared apartment, never confuses you. The visual aesthetic perfectly complements the theme of the drama. The thoughtful, slow pacing allows for an exploration of subtle expressions like stolen glances and unsaid words, portraying their untangled yet impactful history."

The Evrim Ağacı website stated that "The show dives deeply with emotion, centering on themes of heartbreak, longing, and healing. The initial episodes have delighted viewers, showcasing the commendable chemistry between leads, and expertly retaining the charm of the characters. It has garnered attention not only for its storyline but also for its well-received performances by the cast." India Today stated that the "''The First Frost'', the new C-drama delivers it all. With stellar performances, breathtaking cinematography, and a script that understands the weight of regret, it’s a drama that lingers in your mind long after the credits roll." English Jagran stated that "''The First Frost'' leaves lasting impact worldwide, with its thought provoking storytelling, poetic visuals, emotional narratives and masterful character development."

GQ stated that the "This slow-burn romance is packed with unspoken love, youthful chemistry and strong emotions, unfolding in a joyous manner as destiny brings protagonist under the same roof." India Forum states that "''The First Frost'' is a gripping and evocative statement on how mental abuse in teenage affects people. From being too self-reliant to dealing with constant low self-esteem, it touches a raw nerve." Mashable rated 4 out 5 stating that "''The First Frost'' hits all the emotional and heart-fluttering beats, a bingeable C-drama. It’s a refreshing and deeply nice take on romance drama with new sensibilities that raise awareness on sensitive issues.

''Daily Tribune (Philippines)'' praised ''The First Frost'' stating that "It is a soul stirring and angsty masterpiece. It's a drama that stays with you long after the credits have rolled - a warm, lingering hug on the coldest of nights." Newspoint appreciated the storyline, cinematography and background details; it stated that "The series deals with the aftermath of discovering love in a painful and gut-wrenching way. It shows what it takes to find love and stay in it for as long as you live. Its cinematography doesn't just display sentiments, it makes you feel them." Dramadaze highlights that "''The First Frost'' is the perfect balance between heartfelt romance and visual storytelling. It’s a love story that feels both grand and personal, pulling you in with its sincerity."

Soundtrack

On 31 December 2024, Taiwanese rock band Mayday released an official OST and music video for the series. This theme song gained 4M views in a month. "The Invisible Man" sung by Bai Jingting, originally sung by Stefanie Sun from her 2005 album '' A Perfect Day'', was listed among 'Top 10 Songs' on streaming platforms. Xiao Bingchih and Silence Wang MV was popular and gained 2M views with a week. Other OSTs were also appreciated by the audiences and critics. At the series finale, Bai Jingting and Zhang Ruonan performed a piano rendition of the song "Willful".

Production

''The First Frost'' is produced by Wajijiwa, Youku Information Technology (Beijing) Co. Ltd., and Hunan Galaxy Cool Entertainment Culture Media Co. Ltd. The production house issued an official statement on their Weibo account that a live adaptation of Zhu Yi's novel ''The First Frost'' will be made. In August 2023, the production house stated that the series is in the script polishing stage and they are working on the content. It also has a Manhua adaption named ''Eternal Love''. On 24 March 2024, the initial posters were released, and it was announced that the series would be broadcast on Youku. From February to June 2024, the filming took place in Chongqing. On 27 June 2024, the series' first official teaser was released. In December 2024, the series got its airing permit for 32 episodes.

Viewership and rankings

''The First Frost'' was top ranked series as per Yunhe Data Analytics with over 50M viewership per day, top ranked in Dengta with 69M viewership and 19.7% market share; topped various charts like Lighthouse, Aiman, Douyin, Maoyan, VLinkage and Datawin. Even after its final episode, it maintained 12% audience share and 'Top 3' position among C-dramas for more than a week.

* The represents the lowest ratings and the represents the highest ratings in China.

:Based on the average audience share per day (Yunhe Data)

References

External links

The First Frost at Youku Website
*
*
*

Official Teaser

Official Trailer 1

Official Trailer 2

{{DEFAULTSORT:First Frost, The
Chinese novels adapted into television series
2025 Chinese television series debuts
2025 Chinese television series endings
Television shows based on Chinese novels
Chinese romance television series
Television series about teenagers
Chinese high school television series
Youku original programming