SNL Korea Faces Backlash for Controversial Parodies: A Call for Reflection

'SNL Korea' (hereafter 'SNL') seems to be struggling to find the 'appropriate line.' Amidst controversies involving author Han Kang and NewJeans' Hani, the show is once again under fire for mocking the female narrative depicted in the tvN drama 'Jungnyeoni.' Recently, SNL has been at the center of controversy whenever it attempts a parody.

Adult humor, if it crosses the line, can only lead to discomfort. Given that 'SNL' is inseparable from adult humor, it needs to exercise more caution. However, it failed to maintain the boundaries of satire, resulting in public criticism.

In the 9th episode of Coupang Play's variety show 'SNL' Season 6, aired on the 26th, a parody of the Kim Tae-ri-led drama 'Jungnyeoni' was featured. The show renamed 'Jungnyeoni' to 'Jeonyeoni.' Ahn Young-mi appeared in a hanbok, claiming to present a 'shocking Chunhyang,' and altered the pansori 'Sarangga' to 'Come here, let's do it naked.' She also mimicked sexual gestures. In response, Jung Yi-rang exclaimed, 'I can't watch this anymore. Just watching makes me feel like I'll get pregnant. It might help the birth policy,' joining in the exaggerated reaction.

After the broadcast, many viewers expressed discomfort. Criticism was directed at the parody of the underage character 'Jungnyeoni' and the renaming to 'Jeonyeoni.'

Additionally, there were accusations of damaging the image and meaning of the original work. 'Jungnyeoni' is a story about a teenage girl, Yoon Jungnyeon, who overcomes difficulties in the 1950s, a time when women's social status was low, to join the female national theater and pursue her dreams. Viewers reacted sharply, saying, 'Is mocking without sincerity comedy?', 'SNL's actions are appalling,' and 'The production team and original author might have grounds for a lawsuit.' However, some understand it as a 19+ comedy program.

The issue is that similar controversies continue to arise. Previously, SNL faced backlash for mocking Han Kang, the first Korean Nobel Literature Prize winner, and NewJeans' Hani, who appeared as a witness in a national audit. Kim Ah-young parodied Han Kang's distinctive speech style. By caricaturing the appearance and speech of Han Kang, who elevated the international status of Korean literature, she turned it into a laughingstock. Ji Ye-eun mimicked the somewhat awkward pronunciation of Vietnamese-Australian Hani, sparking racial discrimination controversy. Hani's courageous testimony was quickly ridiculed. SNL has remained silent without issuing any official statement.

Instead of satire, SNL seems eager to mimic trending figures. Comedy isn't just about what the performing comedians and planning producers find amusing. If the audience doesn't laugh and responds coldly, SNL's direction is misguided. With calls for cancellation, it's time for both the production team and performing comedians to reflect.

Kim Seo-yun, TenAsia Reporter seogugu@tenasia.co.kr