Is Delusion in trouble due to Tempest?
Start-Up stars Bae Suzy and Kim Seon-Ho are set to reunite in the much-anticipated K-drama Delusion, but the production is facing significant challenges. Currently underway, the show’s filming has hit a snag in China due to unforeseen issues. Previously, a video went viral showing littering incidents during filming in Jeju Island, prompting an apology from the production team.
Delusion Cancels China Filming Schedule
According to Koreaboo, a statement from a representative of Disney+ revealed on October 14 that the filming scheduled in China for Delusion has been canceled. The production team is now on the lookout for alternative filming locations. As noted by the source, “The filming location was still under review—nothing had been finalized yet, and it’s difficult to confirm future shooting sites.” This change comes as a surprise, especially since a substantial portion of the show’s storyline is set in Shanghai. However, due to unexpected local circumstances and last-minute adjustments, all overseas shooting plans have been scrapped. The team is now exploring potential locations within South Korea instead.
Aftermath of Tempest Backlash?
Insider reports suggest that the cancellation may be connected to backlash faced by Disney+’s previous show, Tempest. The drama stirred controversy with a particular line delivered by Jun Ji Hyun’s character, which suggested a pessimistic view of China’s political stance. The dialogue, “Why does China prefer war? A nuclear bomb could fall on the border zone,” ignited outrage among Chinese viewers on social media, who accused the show of misrepresenting their country.
Following these reactions, there were calls for boycotts, and Jun Ji Hyun reportedly faced a loss of endorsements from several brands in China, though her agency dismissed these claims as untrue.
This isn’t the first difficulty Delusion has encountered. In August, the production was penalized in Jeju for violations related to waste disposal. The team has since expressed regret and has promised to improve their practices moving forward.
Overview of Delusion
Delusion is a mystery thriller set to release in 2026. The story takes place in 1935 Gyeongseong, now known as Seoul, and revolves around painter Yoon I Ho. He is commissioned to create a portrait of the enigmatic Song Jung-Hwa, a woman who has lived in seclusion for over five decades. Despite the many rumors surrounding her, Yoon becomes increasingly captivated by her elusive persona while executing the commission. As he delves deeper into this project, he unravels long-hidden secrets that blur the lines between reality and illusion.
