Viewer Petitions Emerge After KBS Drama Team Damages Cultural Heritage Site

Viewer petitions have surfaced criticizing the KBS drama team for damaging a wooden pillar at Byeongsan Seowon, a designated national heritage site. Since January 2, the KBS viewer petition board has seen requests for strict action against those involved in the incident, including claims that the production team nailed into the cultural property during the filming of the new drama 'The Night of the Male Lead' (남주의 첫날밤을 가져버렸다) in Andong, Gyeongbuk.

Architect Min Seo-hong reported that on December 30, while visiting Byeongsan Seowon, he witnessed several crew members hammering nails into a wooden pillar to hang lights. When he raised concerns, the staff allegedly responded that they had already received permission from Andong City. After contacting the Cultural Heritage Department of Andong City, it was confirmed that while filming permission was granted, the act of nailing into the pillar was not disclosed, prompting immediate orders for removal.

Byeongsan Seowon is a significant site in Andong, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The revelation of the damage sparked widespread criticism, with one citizen filing a complaint against the filming team for violating cultural heritage laws.

KBS expressed sincere apologies for the distress caused to viewers, stating that the production team had obtained filming permission but failed to address the concerns raised by onlookers regarding the damage to the cultural property. They acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and are currently discussing the best methods for restoration and prevention of future incidents.

Despite KBS's response, criticism continues to mount, with many petitioners demanding accountability for the filming team. They argue that the ongoing issues of public facility damage and unauthorized control of public spaces by entertainment industry personnel reflect a lack of self-reflection among those responsible.

'The Night of the Male Lead' is a drama that follows a protagonist who unexpectedly spends a night with the male lead of a novel, leading to a thrilling romantic storyline, featuring actors Seo Hyun and Ok Taecyeon in leading roles.