Verdict: BLACKPINK Jisoo and Jung Hae In’s ‘Snowdrop’ Not Canceled?
Following the historical distortion controversy involving dramas such as "Joseon Dynasty" and "Mr. Queen," BLACKPINK Jisoo and Jung Hae In's upcoming drama "Snowdrop" faced the same backlash.
The reason why netizens want to cancel "Snowdrop"
Over 200,000 signatures were gathered in support of the petition to cancel the broadcast of the upcoming JTBC drama "Snowdrop." In the petition addressed to South Korea's Blue House, the petitioners state that the plot of "Snowdrop," which is allegedly set during the "Democratic Movement," reminds a painful part of the country's history.
The petitioners claim that the set-up for Jung Hae In's character as a North Korean spy disguised as a student romanticized spies and their part in the movement. Also, petitioners point out that based on a leaked plot of "Snowdrop," the drama could be romanticizing the National Security Agency who was, according to history, involved in torturing student activists.
"We strongly request for the drama to be canceled as well as for the producers of JTBC's Snowdrop to provide a clear statement as the democratic movement's meaning and history is something cannot be distorted in any way," the petitioners stated in an official statement.
The Blue House verdict, is "Snowdrop" not canceled?
Almost two months after the petition to cancel the broadcast of "Snowdrop" was submitted, the Blue House gives its verdict.
In their response to the petition, the Blue House compared "Snowdrop" to the "Joseon Exorcist," which was immediately canceled after just a few episodes of broadcast due to the severity of historical distortion evident in the drama. The Blue House explained the side of the broadcasting network who claims that the controversy was due to the incomplete synopsis and character descriptions that were leaked online. Such leakage of partial information has resulted in one-sided information and does not represent the entirety of the drama that is currently in production.
Siting the fourth clause in the broadcasting, the Blue House went on to explain that "independence and freedom are guaranteed " for creative works to pursue their own artistic expression. The law also states that non-legal regulation or interference is not allowed towards creative broadcasts.
In addition, the Blue House said, "creative works are free to pursue their own individualistic expression, it is something that needs to be approached with caution. The government respects the free choices and self-restraint that will be exercised with sensitivity by the creators, producers, and consumers with regards to contents that have stirred up the public."
The verdict from the Blue House gives "Snowdrop" the go sign to continue production and proceed as planned. However, "Snowdrop" will be closely monitored by the regulation committee, and should there any be any form of historical distortion, it will be dealt with accordingly.
Are you excited for Jung Hae In and BLACKPINK Jisoo's drama "Snowdrop"? Stay tuned for more updates!