Controversy Surrounds JTBC Drama 'Shining' Over Depiction of Drunk Driving

The JTBC drama 'Shining' has come under fire for airing scenes that suggest drunk driving, leading to complaints filed with the Korea Communications Standards Commission. Amid ongoing issues of drunk driving in the entertainment industry, the production team's lack of safety awareness is being criticized.

The controversial scene appeared in episode 8. The character Bae Sung-chan, played by Shin Jae-ha, is shown drinking with Mo Eun-ah, played by Kim Min-ju, and stating he would drive once sober. However, he is later seen driving in the early hours, and after an emotional encounter with his former lover Yeon Tae-seo, played by Park Jin-young, he takes the wheel in a heightened emotional state.

A similar sequence occurred in episode 7, where Yeon Tae-seo is seen driving after being offered alcohol at a meal, suggesting he might be driving under the influence. This has led to criticism that the drama trivializes the dangers of driving after drinking.

Viewers have reacted by saying the drama lightly consumed the risks of driving with a hangover. Given that alcohol can remain in the body the day after drinking, leading to frequent detections, the portrayal is deemed inappropriate.

The controversy is also tied to recent events. Actor Lee Jae-ryong's drunk driving scandal and actor Bae Sung-woo's return after a hiatus due to drunk driving have heightened public sensitivity to related issues. Consequently, viewer reactions have been more intense.

Similar controversies have occurred before. In August last year, the KBS2 weekend drama 'Glamorous Days' faced criticism for airing a drinking scene at a construction site. Although the context differs, the issue of trivializing dangerous elements is seen as a recurring problem.

The scene has been filed as a complaint with the Korea Communications Standards Commission's general programming and news channel team. The complainant argued that as a public medium, the drama should contribute to forming correct values, rather than using drunk driving as a narrative device. The production team has stated, "We humbly accept the criticism and will be cautious to prevent recurrence."

Dramas reflect reality while also influencing it. Beyond freedom of expression, there is a demand for responsibility in directing, considering the social impact.

Reporter Da-yeon Jeong, Ten Asia light@tenasia.co.kr