The release of Disney+’s original series “Knock-Off” is now uncertain due to Kim Soo-hyun’s scandal. Originally scheduled for a production announcement next month and a release within the first half of the year, the series is facing potential delays following allegations of Kim Soo-hyun’s past relationship with the late Kim Sae-ron when she was a minor.
“Knock-Off” follows a man whose life is upended by the IMF crisis and his rise to power in the counterfeit goods market. Kim Soo-hyun plays Vice President Kim Sung-jun of Saemmul Market, while Jo Bo-ah stars as special judicial police officer Song Hye-jung. The series has already begun filming a second season and has invested a significant production budget.
Filming for Season 1 was completed, and production for Season 2 was already underway, with approximately 60 billion won invested. The show was planned for a global launch, banking on Kim Soo-hyun’s popularity after “Queen of Tears.”
However, with Kim Soo-hyun now embroiled in controversy, his participation in promotional events is uncertain. Even his international fanbase appears to be turning away. In the worst case, the show could even face cancellation. Disney Korea has stated that no final release date has been confirmed.
Disney Korea and Disney+ Korea’s official accounts are now flooded with comments demanding Kim Soo-hyun’s removal. Critics are questioning Disney’s integrity, saying, “Is this really a company that creates children’s content?” and “We’ll never let our kids watch Disney+ again, make the right choice.”
Sponsors of “Knock-Off” are also bracing for impact, including Safe Zone Korea, a pioneering South Korean streetwear brand. CEO Park Ki-pyo expressed disappointment, “This unexpected scandal has disrupted the project, which is unfortunate. We will determine our official stance after Disney’s announcement.”
Founded in 1986, Safe Zone Korea relaunched in 2020 in Seoul’s Garosu-gil district, aiming for global expansion. Park Ki-pyo has been modernizing the brand, even while facing personal hardships, such as the passing of his younger sister, Park Kyung-ri, last May. Despite his grief, he remains committed to the brand’s growth and vision.
With “Knock-Off”’s future uncertain, attention is now on how sponsors and production partners will respond. Industry insiders warn that prolonged controversy could damage brand images associated with the project. The industry now waits to see whether Disney+ will proceed with the release or opt for a delay.
Sources: Kbizoom