Disney+ faces cascade of scandals as Korean stars spark delays and cancellations
From left, Kim Soo-hyun, Jung Woo-sung and Park Na-rae / Xportsnews
Disney+ is facing a growing series of setbacks in Korea as multiple high-profile actors become embroiled in personal controversies, forcing the global streaming platform to delay major projects and pull scheduled programs.
One of the biggest blows came from “Knock-Off,” originally slated for release in the first half of 2025. The series follows a man whose life is upended by the Asian financial crisis and who rises from an ordinary office worker to the king of the global counterfeit market.
A still from "Knock-Off" / Courtesy of Disney+ Korea
Once considered among Disney+ Korea’s most anticipated titles, the project was halted after lead actor Kim Soo-hyun became embroiled in controversy. Although production cautiously resumed, filming was suspended indefinitely just one month later.
Disney+ later revealed its lineup for the second half of 2025, with “Knock-Off” noticeably absent. Choi Yeon-woo, head of local content at Walt Disney Company Korea, said the platform decided to postpone the release “after careful internal review,” adding that there were “no further updates beyond the initial statement.”
A poster for "Made in Korea" / Courtesy of Disney+ Korea
The streaming service is now preparing to release its next major original production on Dec. 24: “Made in Korea,” led by Hyun Bin and Jung Woo-sung. The project drew early attention for pairing two of Korea’s biggest stars, but Jung’s personal controversies last year continue to shadow the series.
Jung publicly acknowledged having a child with model Moon Gabi, saying he would “take full responsibility as a father.” Months later, news emerged that he had registered his marriage to a longtime partner. His agency declined to comment, saying it was “a private matter,” while Jung resumed activities through appearances at events such as the Busan International Film Festival and Disney+ Original Preview 2025. Still, releasing a high-budget drama is a different test, and industry watchers say renewed scrutiny of his personal life could overshadow the show.
Park Na-rae / Xportsnews
Disney+ variety programs, previously unaffected by scandals, have also been hit. On Monday, comedian Park Na-rae halted all activities after facing allegations of abuse of power and involvement in unlicensed medical procedures tied to a so-called “injection aunt.”
Her upcoming variety show “Nado Shinna” immediately canceled its broadcast plans. Other major programs she appeared in — including “I Live Alone,” “Where Is My Home” and “Amazing Saturday” — announced her departure or her scenes being edited out. As for “Fate War 49,” planned for release next year, producers said “nothing has been decided,” though anxiety is growing as Park’s return timeline remains unclear.
This article from Xportsnews is adapted by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.