JTBC drama “King The Land” has issued a second statement addressing the controversy over its recent episode.
In the episodes that aired on the 8th of July, “King The Land” depicted the story of Arab prince Samir, who is described as one of the world’s top figures, staying at the King Hotel where Guwon (played by Lee Junho) and Cheon Sarang (played by YoonA) work. In the first scene where Samir appears while receiving a call from Guwon, he is shown in a luxurious club surrounded by women. Additionally, in a scene where Samir and Guwon are served a meal at the King Hotel, they toast with wine, and Samir openly flirts with Cheon Sarang. Guwon restrains Samir, calling him a “playboy,” and also mentions his extravagant romantic relationships.
After the broadcast, Arab viewers raised concerns about the portrayal of Samir, an Arab prince, as a playboy, the inclusion of alcohol in a scene where a Muslim who does not drink for religious reasons is being entertained, and the casting of an Indian actor in the role of an Arab prince. They demanded an explanation, claiming that these aspects distorted Arab culture and religion and were offensive.
JTBC’s first statement dismissed the controversy and received immense backlash from Arab fans as a result. Moreover, K-netizens took Arab fans side and criticized JTBC for their response.
On July 12, JTBC issued a second statement via the production company. The apology reads as follows:
An apology from the production company for ‘King the Land’
We would like to express our deep and sincere apology for causing unnecessary inconvenience to our viewers without full consideration of other valued cultures although we have no intention of caricaturing or distorting any particular country or culture in the process,
It has been our sharp realization that there has been a lack of understanding, experience, and consideration for other cultures, We will do our best going forward to create content that can be enjoyed by anyone regardless of where they are from
and what kind of culture they have.
We will take a thorough look into the part of the video which was considered problematic, and do our best to make sure that right measures are taken, We earnestly promise to our viewers that more care will be taken down the road so that there will be no inconvenience in viewing our content.
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