4 Korean Dramas Criticized for Racism Due to Skin Color Differences - Southeast Asian Immigrants

Kapanlagi.com - Korean dramas have become a global phenomenon captivating millions of viewers. However, behind the popularity, some K-drama productions have stumbled into controversies related to issues of racism and cultural stereotypes. Here are some Korean dramas criticized for racism.

Some of these dramas still show a lack of sensitivity towards cultural and ethnic diversity. This article will discuss several cases where Korean dramas have faced public condemnation for content deemed racist or insensitive for entertainment.

From misrepresentation of African culture to stereotypes about Southeast Asian immigrants, Kapanlagi will explore how these controversies have sparked important discussions about representation in the following Korean dramas criticized for racism.

What are these dramas? Here is a list of Korean dramas criticized for racism that you can watch. Let's check it out, KLovers!

1. BACKSTREET ROCKIE (2020)

Backstreet Rockie Drama (credit: hancinema.net)

The drama BACKSTREET ROCKIE is a romantic comedy that tells the story of Choi Dae-hyun, a convenience store owner, and Jung Saet-byul, a smart and energetic part-time employee. Although their relationship starts off rocky, they gradually develop a bond.

However, amidst this romantic tale, the Korean drama faced significant controversy related to racism. One episode of the drama received sharp criticism for featuring a scene considered racist towards Black individuals.

Stereotypical portrayals and inaccuracies in differentiating African countries sparked public outrage, especially amid the global Black Lives Matter movement. This controversy sparked serious discussions about representation and cultural sensitivity in the Korean entertainment industry.

2. THE PENTHOUSE SEASON 3 (2021)

Drama The Penthouse Season 3 (credit: hancinema.net)

The drama THE PENTHOUSE SEASON 3 continues the intrigue-filled saga at Hera Palace, a luxury apartment inhabited by Seoul's elite. This drama tells the story of the fierce competition among Shim Su-ryeon, Cheon Seo-jin, and Oh Yoon-hee for power, love, and revenge.

The story becomes even more complicated with the emergence of new characters and dark secrets being revealed, keeping the audience glued to the shocking plot. However, amidst its popularity, this drama has faced criticism for racism related to Alex, Logan Lee's brother.

Alex's appearance with dreadlocks, tattoos, and an African-American accent has been seen as a form of insensitive cultural appropriation. This criticism highlights the stereotypes in the Korean entertainment industry, emphasizing the importance of cultural awareness in global content production.

3. THE MAN WHO DIES TO LIVE (2017)

Drama The Man Who Dies to Live (credit: hancinema.net)

The drama THE MAN WHO DIES TO LIVE is a comedy drama that tells the story of Jang Dal-goo, a Korean man who has lived in the Middle East for a long time. After becoming wealthy, he returns to Korea to search for his daughter who has been separated from him for a long time.

This Korean drama, criticized for being racist, combines elements of humor with cultural exploration, but the approach taken in depicting Middle Eastern culture sparked significant controversy. Some scenes and dialogues were considered offensive to Islamic culture and religion.

The portrayal of a hijab-wearing woman in a bikini and a poster featuring the main character's legs next to the Quran provoked public outrage. As a result, MBC had to issue an official apology in three languages and remove the controversial scenes.

4. MODERN FARMER (2014)

Modern Farmer Drama (credit: hancinema.net)

This Korean drama, criticized for being racist, tells the story of four band members who move to a village. It explores rural life and farming. The drama MODERN FARMER mixes comedic elements with a message about returning to nature.

However, a controversial scene sparked criticism for featuring dialogue that was deemed disrespectful towards Vietnamese women. This controversy reflects broader social issues in South Korea, where Vietnamese women are often targeted for transnational marriages.

This case triggered discussions about stereotypes and discrimination against immigrants, as well as the importance of cultural sensitivity in Korean entertainment media. As a result, the drama MODERN FARMER became one of the Korean dramas criticized for racism by viewers.

These are some Korean dramas that have been condemned for racism. Through this controversy, the K-drama industry is hoped to evolve into a more inclusive space, appreciating diversity, and being sensitive to global cultures.

(kpl/dhm)