Jung Woo-sung’s performance in the Disney+ drama Made in Korea has sparked intense criticism, with viewers calling his acting lackluster, especially when compared to his co-star Hyun Bin. In the series, Jung plays prosecutor Jang Geon-young, a relentless character chasing corruption, while Hyun Bin portrays Baek Ki-tae, a man of controlled ambition.

While Hyun Bin’s performance has been praised as nuanced and emotionally charged, reactions to Jung Woo-sung have been notably colder. Critics and netizens alike argue that Jung’s acting lacks depth and is marred by over-the-top delivery and a forced intensity. Comments such as “He ruined an otherwise well-made drama” and “I didn’t expect his acting to be this weak” have filled online forums.

Some went as far as to say that his performance was so cringeworthy it made scenes unbearable to watch. One user commented, “He acts like he’s trapped in fake madness, just yelling all the time,” while another wrote, “Even an amateur actor could have done better.”

Jung Woo-sung’s performance was especially criticized in scenes requiring subtlety or emotional complexity. His portrayal reportedly pulled viewers out of the story, and many noted a significant gap between his acting and Hyun Bin’s commanding presence.

This isn’t the first time Jung Woo-sung’s acting has come under fire. His role in the 2010 drama Athena: Goddess of War was also criticized, with viewers accusing him of being one-dimensional and contributing to the show’s declining ratings. In the 2016 film Asura: The City of Madness, his performance was called forced and awkward, especially during scenes involving heavy emotional or aggressive expression.

While Jung has received praise for roles in other works, this ongoing pattern of inconsistent performances has led many to conclude that his acting depends heavily on the character he plays.

Despite the backlash, Made in Korea is doing well. As of January 7, the drama ranked No. 1 in Disney+’s Top 10 TV Shows and has taken top spots across Asian markets, including Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, and Singapore. However, Jung’s acting remains a hot topic, casting a shadow over the show’s success.

Sources: Naver