MBC Apologizes and Removes Controversial 'To the Moon' Teaser Amid Racism Allegations

MBC has issued an apology and removed the teaser video for the upcoming drama 'To the Moon' following allegations of racial insensitivity. The controversy erupted after the teaser, which was released on September 20, drew criticism for its portrayal of Middle Eastern culture.

On the morning of the 21, MBC addressed the issue, stating to TENASIA, "The drama's storyline is set against the backdrop of a confectionery company, and the teaser was created as a parody of a famous ice cream commercial from the 1980s and 1990s. We failed to consider the perspectives of other cultures during this process. The video has been deleted, and we will be more careful and considerate in the future to avoid causing discomfort."

The teaser, released ahead of the drama's premiere on September 19, featured lead actors Lee Sun-bin, Ra Mi-ran, Jo Ah-ram, and Kim Young-dae dressed in Arabian-style costumes. The scenes were reminiscent of the popular 'Screw Bar' ice cream commercials from the 1980s and 1990s. However, the parody quickly drew backlash for allegedly mocking Middle Eastern culture, with criticism spreading rapidly both domestically and internationally.

In the controversial scene, actors danced awkwardly to the familiar jingle "It looks strange~," with Kim Young-dae exaggerating his movements for comedic effect. Critics argued that such expressions are inappropriate and disrespectful in today's context, 30 years after the original commercial aired.

The teaser spread quickly on social media, prompting many viewers from the Arab world to express their displeasure, stating that their traditional culture was being mocked. Some compared the situation to a hypothetical scenario where a U.S. drama featured a character wearing a kimono, a traditional Korean hat, and bound feet, highlighting the lack of cultural sensitivity.

While the video may have been intended as simple humor, it was criticized for failing to consider cultural relativity and context. Domestic viewers also criticized the production team for their lack of sensitivity, questioning how such a concept could be produced and released without anyone recognizing the potential issues.

In response to the growing controversy, MBC removed the video and issued an apology, acknowledging the lack of cultural consideration. They promised to approach future projects with greater care and sensitivity.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr