MBC “When the Phone Rings” team apologized for the sign language parody controversy.

Previously, in the first episode aired on the 22^nd of November, a scene showed sign language interpreter Hong Heeju (played by Chae Soo Bin) interpreting “landslide” on air, during which a broadcast error caused the repeated display of the “mountain” sign. This was misinterpreted by the anchor and production staff as a vulgar gesture. This portrayal sparked controversy, with viewers criticizing it as mocking and discriminatory against the Deaf community and Korean Sign Language. One viewer wrote on the bulletin board, “‘Mountain’ sign language differs from the offensive gesture, but hearing people have turned it into a joke, causing trauma for the Deaf. This is not just rude but discrimination and hate.”

Due to the controversy, the production team of MBC “When the Phone Rings” issued an apology. In the viewers’ bulletin board, they wrote, “The production team seriously accepts the criticism that When the Phone Rings inappropriately handled sign language, resulting in ridiculing the Deaf community and Korean Sign Language.”

They continued, “The drama When the Phone Rings was planned with ‘communication’ as an important theme, and it had no intention of ridiculing or mocking the precious communication tool of sign language. However, we humbly acknowledge that the production team’s efforts to carefully reflect and understand the hardships of the Deaf community and Korean Sign Language were insufficient during the production process. We will make every effort to prevent similar mistakes as we complete the work.”

They added, “Sign language plays a critical role in When the Phone Rings, as it allows the two protagonists to open their long-closed hearts and communicate. We will strive to make this drama convey the full value of sign language as an essential tool connecting people. We ask viewers to watch the show with interest and point out any lacking aspects.”

The production team’s detailed apology concluded with, “We sincerely apologize for causing concern through certain sign language scenes in When the Phone Rings. We will carefully complete the remaining work to prevent similar occurrences.”

What do you think of this controversy?

Source: A