Netflix's "Chicken Nugget" starring Ryu Seung Ryong and Ahn Jae Hong is heavily criticized by foreign viewers amid the high praises for the production.
Days after its conclusion, Arabian viewers called out the Netflix drama for allegedly disparaging their religion, culture and the royal family, raising tension in the Hallyu scene. Read more.
'Chicken Nugget' Criticized For 'Disparaging' Arabian Family
On March 25, the production team of Netflix's "Chicken Nugget" was in hot water after being called out by Saudi Arabian viewers for its disrespectful nod towards the royal family.
The series was initially released with rave reviews from viewers all around the globe, thanks to its unique and thought-evoking narrative that was led by Ryu Seung Ryong and Ahn Jae Hong.
Based on the webtoon of the same name, "Chicken Nugget" follows the hilarious journey of two men who find ways to save a young woman from becoming a chicken nugget forever.
Unfortunately, the work is heavily criticized after Middle Eastern viewers pointed out the alleged disrespect towards their race, culture and religion.
In the show, Ahn Jae Hong's character, a popular singer, went on a world tour. However, it excluded Middle Eastern countries, and even declined the courtesy call of the royal family.
The character even remarked, "Who makes such requests these days?," which was deemed insulting by Saudi Arabian viewers, claiming that it has undertones of racism and discrimination.
"I felt unpleasant," one viewer commented. "They belittled the importance of the royal family in my country. I hope K-dramas stop doing this."
Because of this, Arab viewers intentionally rated "Chicken Nugget" with 1 star on various platforms like IMDb.
'Chicken Nugget' Production Team Releases Statement
On the same day, the production unit of "Chicken Nugget" broke their silence in response to the criticism.
A representative gave emphasis that "Chicken Nugget" is only a work of fiction, and that the work didn't plan to disparage Saudi Arabia in any way, shape or form.
They added, "The only intent was to showcase the Yellow Pants, Ahn Jae Hong's character, and his popularity around the world that even the royal family wished to see him perform live."
With this, the production team hopes that the air between them and the Arab viewers have been cleared. They also ask the viewers to watch the work at face value.
On the other hand, "Chicken Nugget" is now streaming on Netflix. Share your thoughts on the drama with us in the comments down below!
KDramaStars owns this article.
Written by Elijah Mariscotes.
