Netflix’s upcoming K-Drama, Can This Love Be Translated?, is encountering significant backlash in South Korea even before its premiere. The controversy revolves around the casting of Japanese actor Sota Fukushi, whose previous comments have ignited fierce reactions among Korean audiences. Fukushi, a prominent figure in Japan, is set to make his debut in a Korean drama with this project.
The roots of the outrage trace back to an appearance Fukushi made on a documentary-style program in 2015. This show was created to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II and aimed to educate younger generations about the themes of war and peace. During the broadcast, Fukushi read letters from kamikaze pilots and engaged in discussions with survivors of the Pacific War. Of particular note was Fukushi’s emotional recounting of his grandfather’s experience, who had trained to become a kamikaze pilot prior to Japan’s surrender.
While many Japanese viewers interpreted Fukushi’s emotional response as a demonstration of empathy toward the tragedies of war, Korean netizens reacted differently. The comments made by Fukushi have been described as controversial, prompting a wave of criticism online. Some users expressed their anger, stating, “This is seriously pissing me off,” and questioning the decision to cast Fukushi in a Korean drama. Others voiced their frustration with comments like, “How dare you crawl into a Korean drama,” and “If he’s right-wing, why does he keep sniffing around Korean dramas?”
The controversy highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding historical narratives in Japan and Korea, particularly regarding World War II. As the K-Drama industry continues to expand globally, casting decisions can evoke strong sentiments and reactions based on historical contexts. The backlash raises questions about the implications of casting choices in cross-cultural productions and the sensitivity required in navigating historical legacies.
The situation remains fluid as social media continues to amplify the discourse. Netflix has yet to respond to the controversy, but the platform’s decision to include Fukushi in a leading role has sparked a broader conversation about representation and historical awareness in entertainment. As the premiere date approaches, the reaction from South Korean audiences could significantly impact the show’s reception and future viewership.
