Archive · 22 Aug 2025
MBC Apologizes After Backlash Over K-Drama Teaser
The teaser for the K-drama 'To The Moon' got a lot of people upset.
It showed actors dressed in a way that mixed up Indian and Arab styles, like wearing bindis and doing silly dances.
People felt the show was being disrespectful and making fun of these cultures because the story itself has nothing to do with Indian or Middle Eastern culture.
The show's production team apologized and took down the teaser after receiving harsh criticism.
MBC's teaser for the K-drama 'To The Moon' sparked controversy due to its culturally insensitive portrayals.
The teaser featured actors in a mix of Arab and Indian attire.
The actors wore bindis, used exaggerated dance moves, and incorporated Orientalist cliches.
Viewers criticized the show for reducing Arab and Indian cultures to props.
MBC issued an apology and removed the teaser, explaining the video was a parody.
- Who
- MBC, the production team, the actors, and viewers of the K-drama 'To The Moon'.
- What
- The teaser for the K-drama 'To The Moon' was criticized for its cultural insensitivity.
- When
- The teaser was released on August 20, 2025.
- Where
- The show is produced in South Korea.
- Why
- The teaser was perceived as culturally insensitive.
Critics
MBC
Cultural Representation
Critics
The teaser was culturally insensitive and inaccurate.
MBC
N/A
- Show Title
- To The Moon
- Network
- MBC
- Teaser Status
- Released, then Removed
- Release Date
- September 19, 2025
- Main Theme
- Young South Koreans facing workplace stress and debt.
Sources
To The Moon Teaser REMOVED For 'Mockery' Of South Asian Culture, Use of Bindi Angers Netizens
‘Offensive’ K-drama slammed for mocking Indian and Arab cultures; uses bindi and caricature-like moves: ‘Disappointed’