Introduction to the Controversy
On October 27, SNL Korea attempted to parody the popular K-drama Jeongnyeon: The Star is Born. This comedy sketch centers around Yoon Jeong-nyeon, a character portrayed by Kim Tae-ri, who bravely joins an all-female musical theatre group in the 1950s to chase her ambitions. However, the adaptation quickly turned sour as the humor was perceived as overly sexual and demeaning, igniting outrage among viewers.
The Content of the Sketch
In the skit, comedian Ahn Young-mi adopts the lead role but is referred to as ‘Jeot-nyeon,’ a name that invokes connotations of breast milk. During her performance of a traditional Korean love song, the lyrics themselves are altered to deliver an explicit message, prompting uncomfortable laughter rather than applause. Additionally, the characters make controversial remarks that numerous viewers deemed inappropriate, triggering discussions on the limits of satire.
Public Reaction and Criticism
The backlash was immediate and widespread. Various reports outlined a mix of local and international outrage, particularly highlighting the fact that Jeongnyeon is depicted as a minor in the original series. Comments on forums, such as TheQoo, soared to around 700, with many decries centering on the skit’s disrespect toward the original narrative and the female characters. Observers labeled the parody as a ‘disservice’ to the art form, with calls for SNL Korea to reconsider its comedic approach. Given this context, it’s vital to reassess how comedy impacts perception and representation, especially regarding sensitive themes pertaining to women.
