The buzz around The Defects has shifted—from Dex’s debut to Lee Na‑eun’s acting.
ENA’s highly anticipated action‑thriller The Defects premiered on July 21, 2025, bringing with it a fresh wave of attention for former April member Lee Na‑eun, who plays So‑mi—an emotionally scarred child survivor navigating illegal adoption and oppression. This marks her first major dramatic role since the bullying controversy that led to her 2021 exit from Taxi Driver and April’s eventual disbandment.
Initially, the spotlight was on Kim Jin‑young (Dex), whose cinematic debut as Jung‑hyun generated debate for his stiff expressions and mechanical walk—despite minimal dialogue—*earning criticism as viewers questioned his acting readiness.*
However, as episodes progressed, Lee Na‑eun’s performance began receiving more scrutiny. So‑mi’s role includes several emotionally intense shouting scenes, including one in which she pretends to be a shaman—an attempt to trap the pastor—but delivers the entire sequence in a high-pitched, unsteady tone that reportedly broke audience immersion.
Viewers described her delivery as “forced” and lacking believability, raising concerns over her growth as an actress after nearly a decade in the industry.
Some netizens in forums and comment sections were scathing, saying that her acting flaws now overshadow Dex’s earlier missteps—calling it “worse than Dex” and asking if she might as well be the drama’s real protagonist because of her heavy screen presence. Many cited that her vocal tone and emotive projection failed to convey the raw trauma her character endures.
Meanwhile, the drama itself is performing well—with rising ratings and acclaim for its intense storyline, well‑choreographed action, and bold narrative tackling illegal adoption, childhood trauma, and societal exploitation. Viewers praised the chemistry among the ensemble, especially noting the strength of performances from Yum Jung‑ah and Won Jin‑ah, while Dex —though inexperienced—is seen as balanced among veterans.
That said, viewer sentiment suggests the series’ moral weight and commentary on disposability of children have turned what was meant to be a triumphant return for Lee Na‑eun into a performance heavily criticized, and sparking doubts about whether The Defects will mark her comeback or further stall her acting career.
Sources: 다음 – 텐아시아