The production team behind the ongoing South Korean drama When the Phone Rings, starring Yoo Yeon Seok and Chae Soo Bin, has issued an official apology following backlash over a controversial sign language scene.

What Sparked the Backlash?

The controversy centers on a scene from the drama’s first episode, which aired on November 22, 2024. In the episode, Chae Soo Bin’s character, Hong Hui Ju, a sign language interpreter, experiences a broadcast glitch during a live news segment. The program freezes on her signing the word “mountain,” which some viewers misinterpreted as an obscene gesture.

Many viewers criticized the scene, accusing the drama of mocking sign language and perpetuating insensitive portrayals of the deaf community.

Production Team’s Response

On December 2, 2024, the production team addressed the issue with an official apology:

“We deeply regret the controversy caused by the sign language scene. There was absolutely no intent to mock or disrespect sign language. However, we acknowledge our shortcomings in accurately portraying the experiences and challenges of the deaf community and sign language users.”

The team promised to handle similar portrayals with more care moving forward.

About the Series

Based on the web novel The Number You Have Dialed by Geon Eomul Nyeo, When the Phone Rings follows the emotionally distant marriage of Baek Sa Eon (played by Yoo Yeon Seok) and Hong Hui Ju (played by Chae Soo Bin). Their relationship, initially a marriage of convenience, begins to change after Hui Ju is kidnapped. This incident forces them to confront their feelings and unravel secrets that transform their lives.

Hui Ju, mute since childhood due to a tragic accident, faces unique challenges as the daughter of a powerful newspaper proprietor. Meanwhile, Sa Eon balances his role as Korea’s youngest presidential spokesman and his emotionally stagnant marriage.

Airing Details

The drama, directed by Park Sang Woo and Wi Deuk Gyu, airs every Friday and Saturday on Netflix.

Fan Reactions

While some fans appreciated the apology, others remain critical, urging the production to exercise greater sensitivity in handling such topics in the future. The controversy serves as a reminder of the importance of thoughtful representation in media.

Are you watching When the Phone Rings? Share your thoughts on how dramas can better portray diverse communities.