When Life Gives You Tangerines Controversy: Netflix’s critically acclaimed Korean drama ‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’ which was released on March 7, 2025, has come under scrutiny following allegations of mistreatment and toxic work conditions on set. Despite its global success and high ratings, several crew members and extras have spoken out about their negative experiences during the production.
‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’ Faces Backlash Over Alleged Toxic Work Conditions
‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’, starring IU and Park Bo-gum, has captivated audiences worldwide with its heartfelt storytelling and nostalgic portrayal of 1960s Jeju Island. The series achieved impressive viewership, securing the fourth spot globally among non-English TV shows on Netflix shortly after its release.
However, the show's reputation has been ruined by recent allegations from individuals claiming to be part of the cast and crew. These individuals have taken to social media to share their experiences, describing the production environment as harsh and inhumane.
Allegations of Mistreatment During The Production of ‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’
Several crew members and extras have spoken out about facing unfair treatment and tough working conditions on set. According to a report, one of the crew members alleged, “They treated us like slaves,” they’ve raised concerns about long working hours with hardly any breaks, along with a toxic and stressful work environment.
Several users on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on May 27, 2025, claimed that extras on set were treated unfairly. Allegations included forced haircuts, verbal abuse, and poor working conditions, reportedly under the direction of the writer and director of the drama.
재밌는거 하나 알려드립니다. 어차피 촬영팀이 우리가 대여해주거나 제작해주는 구형 버스나 대형소품차량을 다룰 수 있는 능력 자체가 없기 때문에 거의 현장에 저희 인원이 관리/운행(을 빙자한 감시)을 목적으로 상주하는데도 다 훼손합니다.
— 연장토끼 (@M_RBt_) May 26, 2025
사유는 대부분 '무지' 혹은 '책임 의식 없음'입니다. https://t.co/c39dxxzdzn
An X account user named M_RBt_, stated, “I'll tell you something interesting. Since the filming crew doesn't have the ability to handle the old buses or large prop vehicles that we rent or build for them anyway, they end up damaging them even though we have our staff on site almost exclusively for the purpose of managing/operating them (or monitoring them under the pretext of doing so). The reasons are mostly 'ignorance' or 'lack of sense of responsibility'.”
Another X user alleged that, “Tangerines' was already notorious among extras as a schedule to avoid. They forced people to shave their heads, and for a Netflix production, they provided next to nothing. Elderly actors were left shivering in the cold, barely fed, with no proper rest areas. They were thrown into random restaurants and told to eat within 30 minutes. No tea tables, no catering trucks-nothing.”
These claims have sparked outrage among fans and the broader public, leading to calls for accountability and better treatment of workers in the entertainment industry.
‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’ Production Team's Response
In response to the allegations, the team behind ‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’ has denied the claims and said they’ve started an internal investigation to look into the matter. A spokesperson stated, “We are committed to ensuring a safe and respectful working environment for all our staff and are taking these allegations seriously.”
The controversy has prompted discussions about the need for improved working conditions and transparency in the entertainment sector.
Don't miss:When Life Gives You Tangerines: Plot, Cast, Release Date, And Where To Watch - K-Obsessed
Impact on The Industry
The situation has shed light on the often-overlooked challenges faced by behind-the-scenes workers in the Korean film and television industry. The authorities must opt for stricter regulations and oversight to ensure the well-being of all individuals involved in production.
About ‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’
‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’ is a slice-of-life romance Korean drama directed by Kim Won-seok, featuring IU, Park Bo-gum, Moon So-ri, and Park Hae-joon. The story revolves around a poor girl with dreams of becoming a poet and her heartfelt romance with a young boy. As per IMDb, “In Jeju, a spirited girl and a steadfast boy's island story blossoms into a lifelong tale of setbacks and triumphs, proving love endures across time”, is the main plot of this drama.
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Image credit: IMDb
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