Netflix original drama 'Scandal', released on September 18th, has been at the center of heated controversy since its initial release due to the shocking 19+ (adult-rated) nude scenes featuring actors Ji Chang-wook (지창욱) and Nana (나나). Some viewers described the intensity as 'beyond common sense,' leading to sharply divided reactions. Despite this, 'Scandal' has captured the attention of viewers worldwide, ranking 3rd in Netflix's Global Non-English TV Show category, with actress Han Sun-hwa (한선화) emerging as a 'scene-stealer' and driving much of the buzz.
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'Scandal' Netflix Global Chart Performance (As of September 30, 2026)
| Metric | 1주 차 (9월 18일 공개 후) | 2주 차 (9월 30일 기준) |
|---|---|---|
| Global Rank (Non-English TV Show) | 7th | 3rd |
| Cumulative Views | 190만 뷰 | 280만 뷰 |
| Cumulative Hours Watched | 1,450만 시간 | 2,190만 시간 |
| Countries in TOP 10 | 10 countries | 18 countries |
19+ Controversy: The Paradox of Global Success
Since its release on September 18th, Netflix's drama 'Scandal' has sparked heated controversy both domestically and internationally due to its 19+ (adult-rated) nude scenes. In particular, a full-body nude scene lasting approximately five minutes in episode 7 was so shocking that it earned the drama a 19+ rating in Korea. While some viewers mentioned that the actors wore skin-colored protective gear, the possibility of a body double being used for Nana's nude scene was also raised. Furthermore, criticisms arose regarding Ji Chang-wook's less muscular physique compared to his past roles, and some fans even declared their '탈덕' (taldeok, a Korean term meaning to 'un-fan' or leave a fandom) due to the scenes being deemed 'excessively provocative and undignified.' Nana also faced criticism that her 'excessively plump lips' hindered immersion. Through the paid fan communication platform Bubble, she indirectly admitted to having lip filler procedures and apologized, stating, “If my lips caused you discomfort, it is my fault.”
However, despite these controversies, 'Scandal' achieved remarkable success, entering the charts in its second week of release on September 30th, by ranking 3rd in the Global Non-English TV Show category. It proved its international popularity by entering the TOP 10 in a total of 18 countries, including Hong Kong, Bangladesh, El Salvador, Indonesia, Japan, Kuwait, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Qatar. This is analyzed as a result of the drama's controversial provocative content actually amplifying its buzz and piquing the curiosity of global viewers.
Han Sun-hwa Rises as 'Scandal's' Undeniable Scene-Stealer
Amidst the nudity controversy, actress Han Sun-hwa has emerged as the biggest beneficiary of 'Scandal' with her undeniable presence. Han Sun-hwa vividly portrayed Bun-hee, an ambitious character who stops at nothing to marry off her daughter So-ok (Shin Yeon-ha) into a prestigious family. She added depth to Bun-hee's obsession with money and power, enhancing the drama's entertainment value and making the character even more captivating. According to a Kbizoom report, despite her relatively limited screen time, Han Sun-hwa has left a powerful impression and significantly contributed to driving the drama's buzz.
Mise-en-scène and Actors' Psychological Portrayals Transcend Controversy
'Scandal' tells the story of Lady Jo (Son Ye-jin, 손예진), a woman of extraordinary talent confined by the limitations of her gender in the Joseon Dynasty (조선 시대); Jo Won (Ji Chang-wook), Joseon's greatest playboy; and Hee-yeon (Nana), who becomes entangled in their audacious and dangerous game of love. The drama begins with Lady Jo proposing a perilous wager to Jo Won: to seduce Hee-yeon. Both domestic and international media and viewers have praised the drama's rich Korean historical elements (사극, sageuk) and the actors' immersive psychological performances.
“The beautiful hanok (한옥, traditional Korean house) sets and the aesthetics of space are exceptional. The restrained yet vivid colors give the feeling of stepping into paintings by Kim Hong-do and Shin Saimdang, and the elegant texture of the hanbok (한복, traditional Korean attire) is more than enough to captivate global viewers.” — Hong Dong-hee, Reporter for MK Sports
“Outstanding sets, beautiful hanbok, and artistic elements that naturally inspire admiration.” — Kim Kyung-hee, Reporter for iMBC Entertainment
Furthermore, Watcha Pedia user '_Kkeut**' commented, “The cinematography is excellent, and historical drama elements like pansori (판소리, a traditional Korean musical storytelling genre) are well-utilized,” while 'Ttungguwa**' added, “The sophisticated visuals, clean direction, and poetic dialogue's lingering impression elevate the overall quality of the work.” IMDb user 'Tarin***' highly praised it, saying, “The unique characters, excellent dialogue, and tense psychological warfare scenes are captivating.” It is analyzed that this mise-en-scène and the actors' delicate psychological portrayals became a powerful driving force in captivating viewers, even amidst the controversy surrounding the 19+ scenes.
Even Hyun Bin's Reaction Becomes a Hot Topic: 'Scandal's' Legacy
Despite its provocative subject matter and nudity controversy, 'Scandal' has secured a top spot on global charts, once again proving the power of K-content through the synergy of its actors' passionate performances and the drama's overall quality. Notably, Son Ye-jin's husband, Hyun Bin (현빈), became the subject of good-natured jokes due to the drama's high intensity, with reactions pouring in that 'the whole nation is watching Hyun Bin's reaction.' The Blue Dragon Film Awards' Instagram account further heightened this atmosphere by posting a parody image that superimposed Hyun Bin's face onto a still cut of Ji Chang-wook and Son Ye-jin.
“H-Husband, why are you here...?” — Son Ye-jin, comment on Blue Dragon Film Awards Instagram post
Son Ye-jin herself responded humorously to this post with the comment, “H-Husband, why are you here...?”, garnering tens of thousands of likes. Ji Chang-wook also wittily commented on filming intimate scenes with Son Ye-jin, stating, “Hyun Bin sunbae-nim (선배님, a respectful term for a senior colleague) didn't mind at all. My only sin was loving Lady Jo,” and this remark quickly went viral online. 'Scandal' has reinterpreted the forbidden desires of the Joseon Dynasty from a modern perspective, achieving both commercial success and significant controversy. It has sparked deep discussions about the actors' performances and the drama's message, making it noteworthy to see how it will be remembered in the history of K-dramas.
