'To the Moon': MBC apologizes for controversial teaser; Makes changes in strategy ahead of launch

A reset before launch

MBC

removed the initial teaser for 'To the Moon' and apologized following intense criticism that the clip mocked Middle Eastern and South Asian cultures, shifting its rollout strategy weeks before the first broadcast. The network acknowledged the clip drew from 1980s-1990s ice cream commercial parodies tied to the drama's confectionery backdrop but admitted it failed to consider global sensitivities and deleted the video across platforms.

What sparked the uproar

The deleted teaser depicted Lee Sun Bin, Ra Mi Ran, Jo Aram, and Kim Young Dae in Arabian-inspired outfits with genie motifs and exaggerated dance, which international viewers condemned as perpetuating dated stereotypes. Coverage detailed elements such as Aladdin-style costuming, bindis as styling, and mixed choreography references that critics labeled ignorant and reductive, fueling rapid backlash on social media.

The apology and course correction

MBC stated it had removed the teaser and would exercise greater caution going forward to avoid discomfort, aligning public messaging with the drama's core about ordinary workers seeking a financial lifeline.

What the drama still promises

'To the Moon' features Lee Sun Bin, Ra Mi Ran, and Jo Aram as colleagues from Maron Confectionery whose friendship anchors a high-stakes investment journey, with premiere set for September 19 at 9:50 p.m. KST. Despite the controversy, anticipation remains for a survival narrative that blends humor and hard truths, now under closer global scrutiny regarding representation and tone.