Korean Broadcasting Channel MBC Called Out For Mockery Of Indian and Middle Eastern Culture In Insensitive Teaser For Its Upcoming Kdrama
The Korean Broadcasting Channel MBC is under fire by both Indians and Arabs for its portrayal of both cultures in the upcoming drama “To The Moon” teaser.
On August 20, MBC released the teaser for its upcoming drama “To The Moon” starring Ra Mi Ran, Lee Sun Bin, and more. The teaser also featured a cameo from Kim Young Dae.
The teaser, which has since been deleted, featured actresses Lee Sunbin, Ra Mi Ran, Jo Aram, and actor Kim Young Dae, wearing what appear to be traditional costumes of Middle Eastern countries and “bindis,” which are worn across different Indian communities.
The cast is seen dancing comically in a parody of an Indian-inspired ice cream commercial that was popular in the past.
Regarding this, among some overseas viewers, criticism was raised that there was a lack of respect for Middle Eastern culture and Indian culture. On social networking services (SNS), there was a lot of backlash from both communities.
On the 21st of August, MBC stated through an official position, “The recently released drama ‘To the Moon’ teaser was produced as a parody of popular ice cream commercials from the 1980s–1990s, taking into account that the main story of the drama is set against the background of a confectionery company. In this process, there was a part where we failed to consider the stance of other cultures.”
It continued, “Currently, the video has been completely deleted. From now on, we will be more careful and cautious in such matters so as not to cause discomfort.”
What do you think of MBC’s apology?
Source: (A)
