The Disney+ original Korean blockbuster Tempest stirs up outrage in China.
The thriller has sparked widespread outrage among Chinese netizens, who accuse the show of distorting China’s image and promoting anti-China sentiment.
The scenes sparking criticism come from the early episodes. In one of them, perhaps the most controversial scene, the characters appear in a meeting. Officials are seated on a round table beneath which is a massive red carpet covering the floor, with five yellow stars clearly imprinted on it.
Countless Chinese netizens have pointed out that this can easily be interpreted as an implied act of trampling on China’s national flag.
The criticisms do not stop there. In the drama, China’s port city of Dalian is depicted as a dilapidated and chaotic shantytown, filled with shabby fishing boats and run-down buildings. 
Chinese viewers accuse that this image misrepresents their city heavily. It is reported that the production team actually filmed in a neighborhood in Hong Kong and then edited the scenes with dark tones. Despite the opening credits stating the work is “purely fictional,” many criticize that this “deliberate” manipulation created a mismatch, presenting a stark contrast to the real, modern image of Dalian.
Another major criticism arises from a dialogue that comes from Jun Ji Hyun in her role as a diplomat, when she openly questions, “Why is China so eager for war?” implying China is a war-mongering nation.
Despite claims that the actress was merely performing her role, Chinese netizens have heavily criticized her, arguing that an actress as experienced and influential as her — even in China, where she enjoys immense fame due to her role in My Love from the Star — must have had a considerable degree of awareness and decision-making authority regarding the script and dialogue, and should consider the cultural and political implications of the projects she chooses.
Nevertheless, despite the criticisms, Tempest enjoys immense popularity not only worldwide on Disney+ but also in China thanks to its star power, compelling story, and action-packed spectacle. The series, which blends political intrigue, family drama, and high-octane action, highlights Jun Ji Hyun’s successful transition from rom-coms to more serious dramas. While certain scenes have sparked controversy, the show’s high-quality production and strong performances command attention in the industry.
Tempest tells the story of Moon Ju (Jun Ji Hyun), a diplomat and former ambassador to the U.S. with an international reputation, who, along with San Ho (Kang Dong Won), a special agent of unknown nationality, pursues the truth behind a massive incident.
The K-drama is available to stream on Disney+, Disney+ Hotstar, and Hulu (select regions).
Source: Sohu.com
