On January 1, the official YouTube channel of tvN DRAMA released a video titled [2026 tvN ID] Joy Lives on tvNcreated to celebrate the network’s 20th anniversary. The description said: “Our 20 years and the countless moments of joy we have shared together. We look forward to an even more exciting tvN in 2026 on our 20th anniversary.”
The video showcased many of tvN’s most iconic productions, including dramas such as Guardian: the solitary and great God, Lovely runner, My lord, Response 1997, Hospital playlistAND Bon appetit, Your Majestyas well as variety programs such as Grandparents on flowers, Take the block quizAND Three meals a day. Together, these titles represented the network’s history and distinctive content.
However, some viewers expressed disappointment at notable omissions. In particular, the focus quickly shifted to Queen of tearsthe drama hosted by Kim Soo Hyun-Kim Ji Won which recorded the highest ratings ever for tvN with 24.9%. Despite its immense popularity and commercial success, the series was nowhere to be found in the anniversary video, leaving many perplexed.
This omission has led to speculation that the absence may be linked to controversies surrounding lead actor Kim Soo Hyun. In March last year, Kim Soo Hyun was embroiled in allegations that he had a six-year relationship with the late actress Kim Sae Ron, which began when she was a minor. Kim Soo Hyun’s agency strongly denied the allegations and announced legal action against the YouTube channel Garo Sero Research Institute, which represented the position of Kim Sae Ron’s family.
Despite these denials, calls for withdrawal from the projects and boycott movements followed. Kim Soo Hyun subsequently disappeared from several advertising campaigns and the release schedule of his upcoming Disney+ original series Elimination has been put on hold. Since holding an emergency press conference on March 31 last year, he has not appeared in public and is currently involved in ongoing legal disputes with Kim Sae Ron’s family and the YouTube channel involved.
Online reactions to tvN’s anniversary video were mixed. Some netizens commented: “It’s hard to understand why the highest-rated drama in tvN history was left out,” AND “At least they could have included Kim Ji Won’s scenes.” Others criticized the complete exclusion, saying it seemed excessive. On the other hand, some viewers responded more calmly, stating: “It’s easy to guess why it was omitted,” or notice it Queen of tears it wasn’t the only much-loved title missing from the video.
As discussions continue, the controversy has reignited debate over how broadcasters handle blockbuster plays when cast members become embroiled in personal scandals and whether it is right for a drama’s achievements, and those of other actors, to be overshadowed as a result.
Sources: Naver
