Star-studded K-Drama Snowdrop Controversy Sparks Debate Among Viewers

Amongst international success and anticipation, the JTBC star-studded series “Snowdrop” controversy has sparked debate amongst viewers; some argue the show is simply a work of fiction, while others criticize the show for distorting modern Korean history.

Featured Image: @jtbcdrama (IG)

Index:

Introduction
Background to the “Snowdrop” Controversy
The Overall Reception of “Snowdrop”

“Snowdrop” Controversy Explained

“Snowdrop” Plot

The drama follows the unexpected romance between a North Korean spy and a South Korean university student. The show takes place during the 1987 presidential election.

“Snowdrop” Controversy

Since the start of the program’s production, viewers have criticized the show for its portrayal of recent history. Online, an petition has gained more than 300,000 signatures, which officially requires the broadcaster (Cheong Wa Dae) to respond within 30 days.

For more information on the specific criticism of viewers keep reading here

Director Argues “Snowdrop” Is Completely Fictional

While director Jo Hyun-Tak defends the program by arguing that the program focuses on the fictional individuals instead of the politics of the time frame, viewers continue to scrutinize the program.

“The drama is set in the year 1987, but, except for situations like the country being under the reign of a military regime and electing a president at that time, all other things, like its characters and institutions, are fictitious”
Jo Hyun-Tak (Online Press Conference)

Overall Response

Response and Cast

Outside of the unintended response by many Korean viewers, the show has overall had an incredibly positive reception from anticipating fans around the globe. The cast stars international hit K-pop girl group Blackpink’s Jisoo and hit K-Drama actors Jung Hae-in, Yoo In-na, and Kim Hye-Yoon, among other stars.