The K-drama industry has faced numerous production challenges over the years. Let’s explore six notable shows that never reached their intended conclusion.
1. Prometheus
Ha Ji Won and Jin Goo were set to star in this ambitious blockbuster K-drama.
The production boasted an impressive budget of ₩30.0 billion KRW ($22.3 million USD) in 2017.
Constant filming delays created scheduling conflicts for Ha Ji Won, forcing her to leave the project.
MBC, the broadcasting network, later dropped the show from their lineup.
Following these setbacks, Jin Goo also withdrew from the production.
2. School 2020
Kim Yohan and Ahn Seo Hyun were chosen as the leading stars for this anticipated series.
The production faced its first hurdle when Ahn Seo Hyun’s father made unreasonable demands. This led to Ahn Seo Hyun’s removal from the cast. The producers then approached Kim Sae Ron for the female lead role.
KBS initially refused to air the show on their network. Interestingly, they later changed their stance. The show was rebranded as School 2021 and finally aired on KBS.
3. Four Sons
Park Hae Jin and Nana were selected to lead this promising K-drama series.
The production company failed to pay staff members and made unreasonable demands. This led to several cast members, including Nana, leaving the show. Park Hae Jin took legal action against the production company.
4. So I Married An Anti-Fan
Girls’ Generation’s Sooyoung and Choi Tae Joon were cast as the main leads in this adaptation.
The production team struggled to secure a broadcasting network. The show remained unaired for nearly three years. Finally, Naver TV picked up the series and broadcast it in April 2021.
5. Wolf
This 16-episode drama only managed to air three episodes before cancellation. Lead actor Eric and other cast members suffered injuries during filming.
The production team planned to resume filming after the cast recovered. However, repeated delays ultimately led to the show’s cancellation.
6. Joseon Exorcist
This 2021 series starred Jang Dong Yoon, Park Sung Hoon, Lee Yu Bi, and Kim Dongjun.
Production issues began when two lead actors suffered injuries during filming.
The show faced intense backlash for historical inaccuracies after airing two episodes. Over 216,000 viewers signed a petition demanding its cancellation.
Major sponsors Samsung and LG withdrew their support, leading to the show’s early end.
