ByeolKorea.com – tvN is currently facing a significant wave of backlash from the K-drama community following the release of its 20-year anniversary special video. The commemorative feature conspicuously omitted ‘Queen of Tears,’ a drama widely recognized as one of the network’s most monumental successes.
This week, the popular South Korean broadcasting network unveiled a special video designed to celebrate two decades of its most impactful K-dramas and entertainment programs. The compilation proudly showcased a roster of beloved shows, including iconic titles such as ‘Reply 1997,’ ‘Hospital Playlist,’ ‘Hotel Del Luna’, ‘Lovely Runner,’ and ‘Bon Appetit, Your Majesty,’ among many others that have defined tvN’s rich history.
However, amidst the celebration, an glaring omission quickly captured the attention and ire of countless netizens and K-drama enthusiasts. Despite its record-breaking performance, the anniversary special contained absolutely no scenes or even a single reference to ‘Queen of Tears.’ This drama holds the unparalleled distinction of achieving the highest viewership rating in tvN’s entire history, making its absence particularly perplexing and controversial.
The Unprecedented Success of ‘Queen of Tears’
‘Queen of Tears,’ starring acclaimed actors Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Ji Won, captivated audiences worldwide with its compelling storyline and stellar performances. The drama not only garnered immense domestic popularity but also achieved global recognition, solidifying its place as a cultural phenomenon.
Its unparalleled success broke viewership records, demonstrating its widespread appeal and critical acclaim within the highly competitive K-drama landscape. The series became a touchstone for romantic dramas, elevating the profiles of its lead actors and cementing its status as a landmark production for tvN.
Kim Soo Hyun’s Controversy: The Suspected Cause
The widespread speculation surrounding the exclusion of ‘Queen of Tears’ points directly to a significant controversy involving its male lead, Kim Soo Hyun. This top actor was embroiled in a severe scandal that emerged in 2025, casting a long shadow over his career and projects.
Specifically, Kim Soo Hyun was accused of having had a relationship with the late actress Kim Sae Ron while she was reportedly underage, leading to a public outcry and legal repercussions. Consequently, Kim Soo Hyun’s reputation has suffered a severe blow, resulting in ongoing lawsuits and numerous lost opportunities within the entertainment industry.
Given the timing and gravity of the accusations, Kim Soo Hyun’s prominent role as a main character in ‘Queen of Tears’ is widely believed to be the primary reason for the hit show’s conspicuous absence from tvN’s commemorative special. Networks often distance themselves from projects associated with major controversies to avoid negative publicity, even if it means sidelining a highly successful title.
“What Did Kim Ji Won Do To Deserve This?” – Fans’ Outcry for the Actress
While the potential reasons for the drama’s exclusion are understood by some, the decision has nevertheless ignited a firestorm of anger among the show’s dedicated fanbase. A particular point of contention is the perceived unfairness towards the drama’s main actress, Kim Ji Won, whose performance was universally lauded.
Many netizens are questioning why the entire production, and especially Kim Ji Won, should suffer for the alleged actions of one individual. Her portrayal was a critical component of the drama’s success, and fans feel her contribution is being unjustly erased from tvN’s historical narrative.
Social media platforms have been inundated with comments from disgruntled viewers expressing their frustration and disappointment. Netizens reacted to the anniversary video with fervent remarks such as, “It’s hard to understand why the highest-rated drama of all time was not included,” clearly articulating their bewilderment at tvN’s decision.
Other comments further highlighted the specific injustice towards the female lead, with one user stating, “They could have at least included scenes of Kim Ji Won,” advocating for her recognition despite the surrounding controversy. The sentiment that the network went too far was palpable, as another fan remarked, “It’s too much to completely exclude ‘Queen of Tears’,” indicating a widespread feeling of collective punishment.
The Broader Implications for K-Drama Legacy
The controversy surrounding tvN’s anniversary special raises important questions about how networks choose to curate their historical narratives and handle past successes tainted by individual scandals. While protecting brand image is crucial, completely omitting a landmark drama like ‘Queen of Tears’ risks alienating a significant portion of the audience and distorting its own celebrated history.
This incident could set a precedent for how future dramas are recognized or disregarded based on the personal lives of their lead actors, even years after their broadcast. The network’s decision creates a delicate balance between public relations and acknowledging artistic and commercial achievements, a balance that many feel tvN failed to strike in this particular instance.
Ultimately, the exclusion of ‘Queen of Tears’ from tvN’s 20-year anniversary celebration leaves a lingering question mark over the drama’s legacy within the network’s storied history. While Kim Soo Hyun’s controversy remains a serious matter, the perceived erasure of an entire production, and the acclaimed performance of Kim Ji Won, has ignited a debate about fairness and recognition that continues to echo across the K-drama community.
