Disney+ Delays Release of Kim Soo-hyun's New Drama 'Knock Off' Amid Controversy

Disney+ has decided to postpone the release of the new drama 'Knock Off,' starring Kim Soo-hyun, due to the resurfacing controversy surrounding his past relationship with the late Kim Sae-ron. On March 21, Disney+ announced that after careful consideration, they would be holding off on the planned release of 'Knock Off.' The drama, which also stars Jo Bo-ah, was initially set to premiere in April and had been preparing for a production announcement. Reports indicated that filming was still ongoing until recently.

'Knock Off' tells the story of a man whose life changes dramatically during the 1997 financial crisis, transforming from an ordinary office worker into a kingpin in the global counterfeit market. This project marks Kim Soo-hyun's return to television after a long hiatus since 'The Tears Queen.' The drama was introduced at the 'Disney Content 2025' event in Singapore last November, where both Kim Soo-hyun and Jo Bo-ah were present.

In the broadcasting industry, adjustments to Kim Soo-hyun's scheduled appearances are already underway. The MBC variety show 'Good Day' has canceled its sixth episode, which was set to air on March 23. 'Good Day' features singer G-Dragon collaborating with various personalities to create 'Song of the Year,' with Kim Soo-hyun participating as part of the '88s' group, friends of G-Dragon. Following the controversy, viewers flooded the show's message board with requests for Kim Soo-hyun's removal. In response, the production team announced on March 17 that they would edit out his segments as much as possible.

The advertising industry is also reacting swiftly. Kim Soo-hyun is currently the face of over ten brands, including Homeplus, Shabu All Day, and Tous Les Jours. Shabu All Day removed all photos of him from their official social media on March 13, and K2 Korea took similar actions. LG Household & Health Care deleted a cosmetics advertisement featuring him that was posted over a decade ago. Additionally, CJ Foodville's Tous Les Jours is reportedly reconsidering the extension of their contract, which is set to expire this month.