Professor Seo Kyung Deok of Sungshin Women's University has sharply criticized Chinese netizens' backlash over a line spoken by actress Jun Ji Hyun in the Disney+ original series, 'Tempest.'
On September 24, Professor Seo wrote on his social media account, addressing the latest 'Tempest' controversy. He wrote, "Local backlash erupted over a line in the drama 'Tempest' with claims it insulted China. The controversy led to the suspension of endorsements for cosmetics and watches that Jun Ji Hyun models for."
Previously, a local Chinese media outlet reported on September 21 that a scene from 'Tempest' had become a point of contention online, citing reactions from local netizens. In the scene in question, Jun Ji Hyun's character, Seo Moon Joo, a presidential candidate and former UN ambassador, states, "Why does China prefer war? Nuclear weapons could fall on a border area." Her line drew negative responses from Chinese netizens who claimed it "damaged China's image," and that "China pursues peace."
In response, Professor Seo Kyung Deok noted, "Of course, it's a right for Chinese netizens to express their own opinions on a drama they watch." However, he pointed out, "But as you know, Disney+ is not available in China, just like Netflix, so it has been exposed that they are watching it illegally."
The professor then criticized their actions, saying, "They steal others' content first, yet they shamelessly pick on it for no reason." He then added, "If Chinese netizens wanted to protest the line, they should have directed their complaints at the production company or Disney+ which aired the line."
He concluded with a harsh critique, suggesting, "It seems Chinese netizens feel a great fear as Korean content gains global attention." The professor urged them to "get a grip" and stop their "desperate attempts to find fault with K-content."
SEE ALSO: Jun Ji Hyun faces backlash in China over scripted line in New Drama 'Tempest'
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