The upcoming Korean film PROJECT Y is gaining attention for all the wrong reasons. Starring popular actresses Han So-hee and Jeon Jong-seo, the film is set to premiere at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). However, Korean netizens are already calling for its boycott.
Rather than celebrating the international recognition, many online are criticising the film’s concept, themes, and casting choices.
What Is PROJECT Y Really About?
PROJECT Y is an R-rated crime noir that dives into the underbelly of Seoul’s Gangnam district. The story follows two women trapped in the adult entertainment industry, who plan a dangerous heist to steal ₩8 billion in smuggled gold.
Han So-hee and Jeon Jong-seo play lead roles as women struggling to escape a grim life by risking everything.
The movie delves into themes like desperation, exploitation, and greed, aiming for a gritty, realistic tone. Yet, Korean audiences feel the concept is tired and outdated.
A Familiar & Problematic Premise?
Many netizens feel that PROJECT Y is yet another example of the Korean film industry relying on “edgy” tropes for attention. The portrayal of hwa-ryu-gye women (a euphemism for sex workers) has struck a nerve.
Some argue the film glamorises or trivialises a harsh reality many women face. Others believe it repeats overused narratives involving gangsters, sex workers, and illegal money.
Critics are asking: Is this really what Korean cinema should be exporting to international festivals?
Why the Casting Is Stirring More Drama
Another reason for the film’s negative buzz is the casting of Han So-hee and Jeon Jong-seo, two actresses currently surrounded by public controversy.
Han So-hee, known for her roles in My Name and Nevertheless, has been in the spotlight due to her rumoured relationship with Ryu Jun-yeol, sparking drama involving his ex, Hyeri. Her defensive responses to public criticism have only fueled the backlash.
Jeon Jong-seo, meanwhile, has her baggage. She has been accused of past school bullying, has made blunt statements online, and has faced allegations of being disrespectful to the media and fans.
“Problematic Pairing” or Strategic Casting?
Some netizens say casting these two “controversial” stars in an adult-themed, provocative role is tone-deaf.
The idea of two “problematic” actresses playing sex workers is being viewed as either a publicity stunt or a poor attempt at bold storytelling.
A viral comment summed up the sentiment:
“They’re trying to look ‘cool’ and ‘gritty’ but just come off as insensitive and desperate.”
Still, others argue that this kind of role aligns with their on-screen strengths—both actresses are known for playing bold, damaged characters.
Netizen Reactions: “Ban This Film”
Reactions on Korean forums have been overwhelmingly negative. Some of the most upvoted comments include:
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“Why are we still making movies about sex workers and gangsters?”
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“This is why Korean cinema is declining.”
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“Vote to ban this movie. Stop glamorising trauma.”
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“Are women only interesting if they suffer or sell their bodies?”
This raises a larger debate about the representation of women in Korean media. Is the film industry still stuck in outdated, harmful tropes?
TIFF Invite vs Korean Backlash
Despite the home-country criticism, PROJECT Y has been officially selected to premiere at TIFF 2024, signalling that global audiences or festival programmers see the potential artistic merit in the film.
Some defenders of the film say that the gritty plot and raw performances could resonate on the international stage, much like past Korean noir films that gained global recognition.
But in Korea, the film’s artistic value is being overshadowed by the loud calls for accountability.
Should Art Push Boundaries—or Be Responsible?
At the heart of the PROJECT Y controversy lies a growing cultural tension: Can films still push boundaries in storytelling without crossing ethical lines?
Korean audiences are no longer passively consuming films—they’re demanding sensitivity, responsibility, and progress in storytelling. Especially when the subject matter is this raw and real.
Casting choices, narrative tropes, and timing all play a part in how a film is received. And right now, PROJECT Y seems to be striking the wrong chords at home.
Will PROJECT Y Sink or Surprise?
Only time will tell how PROJECT Y performs both domestically and internationally. Will it silence its critics with solid performances and compelling storytelling? Or will the negative buzz drown out any chance of success?
One thing is clear: the Korean public is no longer afraid to challenge the intent behind what’s presented as entertainment.
About the Film
PROJECT Y is an upcoming R-rated crime drama that stars Han So-hee and Jeon Jong-seo in lead roles. The story unfolds in the gritty underground world of Gangnam, where two women working in the adult entertainment industry plot to steal 8 billion KRW in smuggled gold in a desperate bid to change their lives.
The film is set to premiere at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), marking its global debut amid ongoing controversy.
