SBS’s new thriller drama Queen Mantis has become a ratings hit in just two episodes, thanks to Go Hyun-jung’s acclaimed performance. However, the show is now facing harsh criticism for perpetuating stigma against people with schizophrenia.
In the September 6 broadcast of Episode 2, a controversial line was delivered during a police investigation scene. When Detective Choi Hyuk (played by Kim Tae-jung) reported that a suspect was a schizophrenia patient, Chief Choi Choong-ho (Jo Sung-ha) responded bluntly: “So you mean he’s a crazy person?”
This single line has ignited backlash for equating all schizophrenia patients with being “crazy” and dangerous.
Mental health experts emphasize that schizophrenia is a neurological disorder, not a personality flaw or a sign of “madness.” Symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions occur due to brain function issues, not because patients choose such behaviors.
While popular media often depicts schizophrenia patients as violent, studies show the reality is very different. Most patients are not a danger to others, and in fact often suffer from social withdrawal and self-stigma. With proper treatment and management, many can lead normal lives. Early intervention significantly improves recovery outcomes.
Labeling them as “crazy” in a prime-time drama risks reinforcing harmful stereotypes, discouraging patients from seeking treatment, and deepening social discrimination.
A study by Seoul National University’s medical school (analyzing 2012–2016 crime statistics) revealed that the overall crime rate among schizophrenia patients is actually lower than the general population: about 72.7–90.3 per 10,000 people, only one-fifth of the general crime rate.
However, the study also found higher rates of serious crimes such as murder (5 times higher) and arson (5–8.5 times higher) compared to non-patients, which may contribute to public fear and misrepresentation.
Many viewers are calling on SBS to issue an apology, pointing out that such dialogue from a mainstream network can leave long-lasting scars on patients and their families. One comment read: “It’s disappointing that a drama with such strong acting and writing would use language that stigmatizes mental illness.”
Despite its early ratings success, Queen Mantis now finds itself under pressure to address the controversy and handle mental health representation with greater sensitivity moving forward.
Sources: 네이트 뉴스
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