The Final Episode of 'WHEN THE PHONE RINGS' Sparks Controversy, Public Highlights Israel-Palestine Representation

Kapanlagi.com - WHEN THE PHONE RINGS has sparked controversy following the airing of its final episode on January 4, 2024. Although highly anticipated by fans worldwide, one scene in this popular drama from MBC triggered sharp criticism.

The scene shows the character Na Yu Ri (played by Jang Gyu Ri) reporting an airstrike by the fictional country "Paltima" against the fictional country "Izmael." Viewers quickly realized that both names refer to Palestine and Israel in the real conflict.

1. Considered Insensitive

MBC

The decision to reverse the roles of perpetrator and victim in the real airstrike is seen as Zionist propaganda by some viewers. Additionally, the use of real suffering in the Middle East as a storyline is deemed insensitive.

As is known, the Gaza Strip in Palestine continues to be brutally bombarded by Israel, accompanied by various crimes against humanity, including the deliberate restriction of aid, creating uninhabitable conditions for over a year. International medical workers in Gaza have warned of violations of international humanitarian law by the Israeli army in the region.

2. Public Anger

In May 2024, the International Court declared that Israel's actions in Gaza potentially meet the definition of genocide. This report was followed by the international court issuing warrants against figures from Israel and Hamas for alleged crimes against humanity.

In this context, the scene in WHEN THE PHONE RINGS triggered anger as it was deemed disrespectful to the facts that occurred. Many are demanding that the production team, including director Park Sang Woo and writer Kim Ji Woon, apologize.

3. Request to Remove Scene

Not only that, the audience also urged MBC to remove the controversial scene from the official broadcast. This is considered important to show responsibility for the misrepresentation.

Until now, neither MBC nor the related parties have responded to the criticism raised. The public and activists continue to await further action from the production side.

Stay tuned for the latest updates, KLovers! If not now, when?

(kpl/rsp)