The controversy was sparked after Chinese audiences took offense at certain lines and scenes in the dramas Tempest and Bon Appétit, Your Majesty, starring Jeon Ji Hyun and Yoona of Girls’ Generation. Accusations that the works disrespected China triggered widespread outrage, leading to a ripple effect that has now impacted Song Hye Kyo’s career.
According to Chinese outlet 163, multiple high-profile projects involving Song Hye Kyo—including lucrative film and endorsement deals—have collapsed. One particularly significant loss was a Hong Kong-based production she had been negotiating for over a year. Out of concern that the film would not pass mainland censorship if she were involved, producers replaced her with Chinese actress Ni Ni.
This development highlights how Chinese investors are becoming increasingly cautious, swiftly removing Korean stars from projects and campaigns to avoid potential backlash. For Song Hye Kyo, the boycott is believed to have cost her a number of opportunities and considerable income in the Chinese market.
Compounding the issue, Song Hye Kyo has also faced resurfaced allegations of diva-like behavior during her past work in China. Reports from outlets such as QQ detail complaints about hotels, demands for full-length mirrors, late-night errands for nail polish, and insisting on branded mineral water for morning showers. Other criticisms include allegedly dismissive behavior at public events, such as presenting awards with one hand or giving extremely short speeches.
Though these accounts remain unverified and one-sided, they have fueled online criticism, with many netizens expressing disappointment. So far, Song Hye Kyo and her representatives have not issued an official response.
The broader climate remains tense: Chinese audiences have called for the replacement of the existing “Korean Wave restriction” with a full “Korean ban.” Jeon Ji Hyun’s content has reportedly been scrubbed from Chinese platforms, and Yoona has been listed among the most disliked Korean stars in the country. With rising hostility, opportunities for Korean artists in China appear to be rapidly diminishing.
Sources: kenh14
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