Costume controversy over "The Remarried Empress" stirs international attention… Disney+ side: "Criticism is proof of interest" [Star Issue]

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

The controversy surrounding the costumes in the Disney+ original series "The Remarried Empress" is drawing attention overseas as well. Amid various reactions to the outfits worn by actors such as Joo Ji-hoon and Shin Min-a, the Disney side directly explained the production intent behind the designs.

On the 13th (local time), Indonesian media outlet IDN Times published an interview article titled "Disney Korea's stance on 'The Remarried Empress' costume concept and fan criticism."

The outlet reported that while "The Remarried Empress" has achieved global box office success since its first week of release, diverse opinions are emerging online not only about the story but also regarding the costumes and set design.

It further stated, "One element that particularly attracted the attention of Indonesian netizens is the costumes."

In this regard, the head of local content at Walt Disney Company Korea explained the production intent behind the costumes in the work through an interview with IDN Times on the 10th.

Head Choi Yeon-woo first revealed that the costumes for the Dongdae Empire and the Seowang Kingdom were intentionally designed differently. This was a choice made to visually express the identity of each country and the characteristics of the characters.

He explained, "The Dongdae Empire expressed wealth and power through rich colors, intricate decorations, and bold designs," adding, "In contrast, the Seowang Kingdom emphasized restrained sophistication through soft colors, structural silhouettes, and elegant tailoring."

It was also revealed that Lee Jong-suk's character Heinrey wearing white costumes when visiting the Dongdae Empire was a setting intended to showcase the unique elegance of the Seowang Kingdom. Heinrey's attendants and soldiers were also dressed in calm-colored outfits, such as gray and navy blue.

Additionally, Head Choi Yeon-woo emphasized that "The Remarried Empress" is a fantasy work rather than a historical drama set in a specific era, explaining, "We drew inspiration from the concepts and styles of various countries around the world."

He stated, "We did not recreate a specific historical period," adding, "As it is a fantasy work, we did not reproduce the clothing of a specific historical era as-is. Instead, we combined classical royal fashion with modern and fantastical elements."

He further explained that designers from various countries, including Korea, participated in the costume production, and extensive research was conducted on royal fashion and accessories.

In response to questions about viewer criticism regarding the costumes and art design, he stated, "We interpret both positive reactions and critical opinions as a sign that viewers are interested in the work."

He explained, "These opinions help us understand what viewers like and which aspects can be improved in future projects."

However, he also emphasized the need to maintain a balance between accepting viewer opinions and respecting the creator's intent.

The head stated, "Our role is to find a balance between listening to the voices of viewers and supporting the vision of the creators," adding, "We all share the same goal of making a good work, and we will reflect the lessons learned this time in future projects."

Previously, "The Remarried Empress" had received criticism before its release that the costume accessories worn by Joo Ji-hoon resembled Nazi medals. At the time, production company Studio N apologized, stating there were shortcomings in the review process for costume props, and promised follow-up measures.

Meanwhile, "The Remarried Empress" is a romance fantasy about Navie (played by Shin Min-a), the empress of the Dongdae Empire, who is notified of a divorce by Emperor Soviesh (played by Joo Ji-hoon), who has fallen for the runaway slave Rasta (played by Lee Se-young). Instead of accepting the divorce, she demands approval for her remarriage to Heinrey (played by Lee Jong-suk), the prince of the Seowang Kingdom.

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original