We, the undersigned, oppose the petition calling for the removal of the drama Perfect Crown from OTT platforms. While we respect concerns about cultural representation, we believe that banning or suppressing a creative work sets a harmful precedent for artistic freedom, international collaboration, and the global reputation of Korean media.

 

1. Fictional Settings Should Not Be Treated as Cultural Threats

Perfect Crown is a fictional drama, not a historical documentary. Fictional worlds often draw inspiration from many cultures, aesthetics, and artistic traditions. This is a normal part of global storytelling. Removing a drama because its costumes or etiquette resemble another culture risks over-policing creativity and discouraging artistic experimentation.

 

2. Cultural Similarities Are Not Cultural Theft

East Asian cultures share centuries of exchange, influence, and overlap. Claiming that any similarity automatically constitutes a cultural threat reinforces unnecessary hostility and misrepresents the complexity of shared regional history.

 

3. International Viewers Are Not Easily “Confused”

Global audiences today are media‑literate. They understand the difference between:

• a fictional kingdom
• real Korean history
• real Chinese history

Assuming viewers will “misunderstand Korean identity” underestimates their intelligence and harms Korea’s image as a confident cultural leader.

 

4. Government Involvement Should Not Silence Art

The fact that Perfect Crown received cultural agency funding should not justify censorship. Government support for creative industries should empower diverse storytelling, not restrict it. Pulling funding retroactively would create a chilling effect on future productions.

 

5. Korea’s Global Soft Power Depends on Creative Freedom

K‑dramas are beloved worldwide precisely because they are bold, imaginative, and emotionally rich. Removing a drama due to online pressure risks:

• damaging Korea’s reputation for artistic openness
• discouraging international co‑productions
• signaling that creative works can be shut down by public outrage rather than thoughtful dialogue

6. Constructive Criticism Is Better Than Cancellation

If viewers have concerns, they can:

• request disclaimers
• encourage cultural consultants
• open discussions with creators

But removal is an extreme measure that harms creators, actors, staff, and the global audience.

 
We therefore call for:

• Perfect Crown to remain available on OTT platforms
• the Ministry of Culture to maintain its funding support
• protection of artistic freedom in Korea’s creative industries
• open dialogue instead of censorship