“When the Phone Rings” Sparks Backlash Over Controversial Finale
Discover how the K-drama “When the Phone Rings” sparked controversy with its finale. Critics accuse creators of insensitivity over a fictional war-torn nation.
Critics Accuse K-Drama Creators of Insensitivity in Portraying Fictional War-Torn Nations
The finale of the popular K-drama When the Phone Rings, starring Yoo Yeon Seok and Chae So Bin, has stirred controversy for its depiction of a fictional war-torn country. While the drama achieved record-breaking ratings, a specific scene in the concluding episode has ignited a heated debate among viewers.
Although the series used fictional names, many fans interpreted the narrative as a thinly veiled reference to the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Critics argue that the depiction was both insensitive and inaccurate, sparking calls for accountability from the creators.
A Controversial Narrative Unfolds
In the climactic episode, the storyline takes an unexpected turn. After Sa Eon receives a cryptic message from a kidnapper, he mysteriously disappears from Hong-Hee Joo’s life. Months later, a determined Hong-Hee Joo embarks on a dangerous journey to Argan, a fictional war-torn country where Sa Eon once worked as a negotiator alongside journalist Jang Hyuk Jin (Ko Sang-ho). Captured by “rebels,” Hong-Hee Joo is ultimately rescued by Sa Eon, who has since become a vigilante.
One contentious scene sees Hong-Hee Joo interpreting sign language during a live broadcast. In the segment, Na Yu Ri (played by Jang Gyu Ri) reports on an alleged airstrike by the fictional country “Paltima” against another nation, “Izmael,” while holding Korean nationals hostage. Viewers quickly drew parallels between these fictional names and Palestine and Israel, accusing the creators of distorting reality and promoting biased narratives.
Fans Demand Accountability
Social media platforms erupted with criticism, as many fans expressed outrage over what they perceived as political insensitivity.
“For anyone who hasn’t watched it, just boycott it. We all know which countries they mean, and the facts are completely flipped,” one user commented.
“Izmael & Paltima with Korean hostages? It’s a mockery of the genocide in Gaza,” another added.
The backlash intensified, with fans urging director Park Sang Woo and screenwriter Kim Ji Woon to issue an apology. Some have demanded the removal of the controversial scene altogether, accusing the network of spreading propaganda.
Record Ratings Amid Controversy
Despite the uproar, When the Phone Rings concluded its run with unprecedented success. According to Nielsen Korea, the final episode achieved a nationwide rating of 8.6%, marking the drama’s highest viewership.
In comparison, Lee Min Ho’s highly anticipated When the Stars Gossip, which premiered on tvN the same week, garnered an average nationwide rating of 3.3%. The series, also available on Netflix, has just begun captivating global audiences.
Balancing Art and Responsibility
The controversy surrounding When the Phone Rings highlights the delicate balance creators must maintain when addressing global issues in entertainment. While fictional narratives allow for creative freedom, they also carry the responsibility of cultural sensitivity and factual representation.
As audiences continue to engage with globally resonant themes, the demand for accountability and authenticity in storytelling remains stronger than ever.
(Disclaimer: This article reflects the ongoing discourse surrounding the series and does not represent the official stance of the creators or network.)
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