Gong Yoo and Kim Go Eun star in the tvN fantasy drama 'Goblin.' (Photo : YouTube/tvN Drama)
"Goblin" has been lauded for its unique storyline, as well as the amazing performances of its talented cast members. However, the tvN drama also received several negative comments from critics over some of its character concepts, excessive product placements and more.
When "Goblin" debuted on the small screens in late November, the tvN drama quickly became one of the popular series in South Korea and in other countries. With a cast that consists of Gong Yoo, Lee Dong Wook, Kim Go Eun and Yoo In Na, many fans quickly fell in love with the drama and its plot.
However, several viewers and critics identified various elements that made the tvN drama controversial. Given the distressing life story of its female lead Eun Tak (Kim) where the immortal Shin (Gong) came to her rescue and gave her a comfortable life, some critics identified the drama's "Cinderella" concept as dated, according to a drama review posted on Korea Herald.
Many dramas have already featured strong and independent young women such as the highly dedicated lawyer in "I Can See Your Voice." Some of the Korean series even highlighted female characters who downplayed what society requires of them such as maintaining a slim figure, as shown in the drama "Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo."
Meanwhile, drama critic Kim Sun Young conveyed his disappointment on Eun Tak's storyline in an interview with the same news site. He commented on how the said character was unable to "escape the Cinderella stereotype" despite having a powerful goblin as her partner.
Moreover, some viewers and critics also expressed their frustration on the many product placements shown in "Goblin." Numerous scenes in the tvN drama revealed brand names and overtly used several products in some episodes.
Recently, enterprising businessmen are also taking advantage the drama's popularity where one of its filming locations even became a popular tourist site. The seaside location in Jumunjin, where Shin handed Eun Tak a small bouquet of flowers, saw an increased number of tourists since "Goblin" aired its first episode.
Located in Gangneung City, one of the new attractions in the said area include the opportunity to mimic Gong and Kim's iconic scene. Several vendors are offering rentals of flower bouquet, an umbrella and even a red scarf for 1,000 won each (approximately less than $1), according to All Kpop.
"Goblin" airs every Friday and Saturday on tvN. Watch the teaser clip for the upcoming episode below:
