Jun Ji-hyun's 'Polaris' Line Sparks Backlash in China, Advertisements Pulled

A line spoken by actress Jun Ji-hyun in the Disney+ original series 'Polaris' is igniting significant backlash in China.

According to Hong Kong media outlets like The Standard and South China Morning Post, a scene featuring Jun Ji-hyun, who plays presidential candidate Seo Moon-joo (a former UN ambassador), saying "Why do Koreans prefer war? Nuclear bombs could fall on the border area" has gone viral on Chinese online communities.

Chinese netizens are fiercely criticizing the dialogue, claiming it "distorts China's image" and is "unrealistic." Further criticisms include the portrayal of a slum in Dalian, China, filmed with dark tones that allegedly tarnish the city's image, a scene where a carpet bearing the five-star Chinese emblem is stepped on, and dialogue spoken by a villain in Chinese.

Allegations have also surfaced that Jun Ji-hyun intentionally distorted the pronunciation of classical Chinese poet Li Bai's verses.

The controversy has extended to Jun Ji-hyun's endorsements. Brands she represents, including cosmetics and watch companies, have reportedly suspended their online advertisements in China or removed related content. Voices calling for the reinforcement of the 'Hallyu ban' are growing louder on platforms like Weibo.

Jun Ji-hyun first gained widespread recognition with the 2001 film 'My Sassy Girl,' solidifying her status as a Hallyu icon through subsequent hit dramas such as 'My Love from the Star' and 'The Legend of the Blue Sea.' Her elegant and sophisticated image has consistently made her a sought-after figure in the advertising world, and she is currently attempting a new acting transformation in 'Polaris.'