Disney+ Series 'The Chilling' Faces Backlash Over Alleged Littering Incident

The production team of the Disney+ series 'The Chilling' has issued an apology following allegations of illegal waste disposal after filming, but a formal complaint has been filed demanding fines.

On the 28th, a complaint titled 'Drama 'The Chilling' Filming Team's Illegal Dumping, Request for Fines and Prevention Measures' was submitted to the Jeju Special Self-Governing Province in Jeju City via the National Sinmungo.

The complainant stated, "Evidence of the drama 'The Chilling' filming team's waste abandonment (suspected illegal dumping) was confirmed in the area of Jogeun Nokome Oreum (forest) in Yusuam-ri, Aewol-eup, Jeju City (as verified through communication with Jeju City officials). A formal request for fines and preventive measures was submitted to Jeju City (Aewol-eup)." They added, "Although the site has now been cleaned, a large amount of household waste was found at the initial report, and some waste remained even after partial collection." They also noted, "The discovery of butane cans alongside filming materials raises the possibility of fire hazards."

The complainant argued, "This case fundamentally violates Article 8 of the Waste Management Act, and according to the Enforcement Decree Table 8, a fine of 1 million won can be imposed for dumping household waste generated during business activities outside of designated collection areas. Considering the location is a forest, the application of Articles 16 and 57 of the Forest Protection Act should also be reviewed, and if fire use or fire hazards (Article 34) are proven, additional fines may be imposed. For the same single act, only the heaviest fine can be imposed according to Article 13 of the Act on the Regulation of Violations of Order, but if different violations are confirmed, separate fines can be imposed." They emphasized, "While creative freedom should be respected, it must be based on site cleanup, safety, and legal compliance," demanding a fine of 1 million won.

On the 27th, a netizen posted on social media, "After filming, they left trash in the forest. Sigh. Along with coffee holders sent by fans," along with photos of the littered site, raising suspicions of 'The Chilling's' waste dumping. The photos included shooting schedules with the names of actors Suzy and Kim Seon-ho, as well as coffee holders printed with the lead actors' faces.

In response to the controversy, a representative from the production company Showbox stated on the 28th, "Filming ended late, and it was dark, so we couldn't thoroughly clean up the site. We recognized the situation, apologized to the filming location and related agencies, and immediately cleaned up the waste. Everything is now cleaned up," adding, "We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused by not properly finishing the site after filming, and we will be more diligent and cautious in future shoots."

'The Chilling' is set in 1935 Gyeongseong and follows the story of a painter, Yoon I-ho (played by Kim Seon-ho), who is tasked with painting the portrait of a captivating woman, Song Jeong-hwa (played by Suzy), who is surrounded by numerous rumors as she remains hidden from the world.

Starring Suzy and Kim Seon-ho, the series is directed by Han Jae-rim, known for films like 'The Face Reader' and 'The King.' Filming began in April, with a production budget of approximately 45 billion won.