A major controversy has developed around the upcoming film Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint, starring BLACKPINK’s Jisoo, following the release of character posters and a teaser trailer on 12 May 2025.
The fantasy action film, produced with a massive 30 billion KRW (approximately 22 million USD) budget, has drawn criticism for apparent historical distortions related to Korean historical figures.
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Korean Historical Figures Altered in ‘Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint’ Adaptation
Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint follows the story of Kim Dok Ja, the sole reader of a web novel whose fictional world suddenly becomes reality.
In this universe, characters receive powers from entities called Constellations, which function as celestial patrons or godlike guardian angels.
Jisoo plays the character Lee Ji Hye, whose Constellation is Admiral Yi Sun Shin, a celebrated historical figure who fought against Japan during the Imjin War (1592-1597).
The controversy stems from promotional materials showing Jisoo wielding a gun rather than the sword or bow historically associated with Admiral Yi, who famously battled Japanese forces using traditional Korean weapons.
This change follows previous alterations in the webtoon version distributed in Japan, where references to Korean independence activist Yu Gwan Sun were replaced with mentions of “a yin-yang sorcerer of contradiction”—a figure from ancient Japanese mysticism.
Reports also indicate that a Constellation representing Ahn Jung Geun, another Korean independence hero, was completely removed from the adaptation.
Critics argue these modifications appear designed to appease Japanese audiences at the expense of Korean historical context.
Production Company Responds as Netizens Call for Boycott
In February, Realies Pictures CEO Won Dong Yeon addressed some concerns via social media, stating, “Film adaptations inevitably require creative adjustments.”
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Won referenced his previous work on Along with the Gods, noting, “We took significant liberties, but both the original author, Joo Ho Min, and fans understood after watching the film.”
The CEO confirmed the script was shared with the original author, who reportedly approved all changes.
While Won released a poster showing the character Yoo Jung Hyuk using both a sword and gun, no similar explanation was provided for Jisoo’s character.
Korean netizens have expressed strong disapproval of these changes, with many calling for a boycott of the film.
“Why would Admiral Yi Sun Shin use a gun…” questioned one commenter, while another stated, “I hope it flops. This is seriously frustrating.”
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Some critics specifically targeted the casting choices: “If the actor can’t handle sword action, then they shouldn’t have been cast. There are tons of actors who could’ve learned it. But you chose a big-name star and took the lazy route.”
Other comments pointed to the historical insensitivity: “They erased Ahn Jung Geun, Yu Gwan Sun, and Yi Sun Shin… lol.”
The film features an all-star cast including Jisoo, Lee Min Ho, and Ahn Hyo Seop, and is scheduled for theatrical release in July.
Here’s what NCMPs are, and what to expect after GE2025:
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