MBC Deletes Drama Teaser Amid Controversy Over Mocking Middle Eastern Culture

MBC Apologizes for "Let's Go to the Moon" Teaser Controversy
Promises Greater Sensitivity in Future Productions

Drama "Let's Go to the Moon" teaser video. Photo by MBC

MBC deleted and apologized for the teaser video of its new Friday-Saturday drama "Let's Go to the Moon" just one day after its release, following controversy over the video’s alleged mockery of Middle Eastern culture.

In a statement on the 21st, MBC explained, "The recently released teaser was a parody of 1980s and 1990s ice cream commercials, inspired by the drama's confectionery company setting." The company added, "We acknowledge that we lacked sufficient consideration for other cultures in this process." MBC continued, "We have now deleted all related videos. Moving forward, we will be more careful and considerate in our productions to prevent any discomfort."

The video featured actors Lee Sunbin, Ra Miran, and Jo Aram dancing in Arabian-style costumes, with Kim Youngdae joining to create a comedic atmosphere. Although the content was intended as a parody of past ice cream commercials, some international viewers criticized it on social media, stating that it "mocked Middle Eastern culture" and "lacked respect for other cultures."

"Let's Go to the Moon" is based on the novel of the same name by writer Na Yunchae and tells the story of three women who, unable to survive on their salaries alone, dive into cryptocurrency investment. The drama is set to premiere on September 19.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.