Popular entertainment programs such as ‘Workman,’ led by Jang Sung Kyu, and MBC’s ‘I Live Alone,’ featuring Park Na Rae, have come under scrutiny for broadcasting scenes that depict and glamorize alcohol consumption, which violates regulations.

On November 18th, the Korea Communications Standards Commission (KCSC) held a general meeting at the Broadcasting Center in Mok-dong, Seoul, and issued a ‘warning’ to MBC’s ‘I Live Alone’ for repeatedly airing scenes of cast members drinking alcohol, thereby glamorizing it.

The scenes in question included comedian Park Na Rae drinking bokbunja (raspberry wine), TWICE’s Jihyo drinking draft beer, and announcer Kim Dae Ho drinking makgeolli (rice wine). Webtoon artist Kian84’s positive comments on these scenes were also criticized. 

The program was accused of portraying “solo drinking” as trendy and describing post-exercise or post-work drinks as “sweet,” thereby glamorizing alcohol consumption.

Similarly, the web variety show ‘Workman,’ hosted by Jang Sung Kyu, faced criticism for depicting alcohol consumption during work hours. 

In a video posted on July 26, 2019, Jang participated in a promotional experience for a beer brand. Pointing to a beer refrigerator in the office, Jang asked if drinking during work was allowed, to which an employee replied, “Once a week.”

This scene violated the National Health Promotion Act, which prohibits depicting alcohol consumption during driving or work activities in advertisements. The law also forbids:

• Offering giveaways or prizes to promote alcohol sales.
• Directly or indirectly encouraging alcohol consumption.
• Depicting minors, pregnant individuals, or their voices in alcohol-related scenarios.

Despite these regulations, content centered on alcohol consumption, such as so-called ‘drinking broadcasts’ (sulbang), remains popular, leading to a rise in violations. 

According to data submitted to Representative Kim Mi Ae of the National Assembly Health and Welfare Committee by the Korea Health Promotion Institute, the number of illegal alcohol advertisements identified from 2019 to August 2024 totaled 7,424 cases.

Representative Kim Mi Ae noted, “The corrective requests made by the Korea Health Promotion Institute regarding illegal alcohol advertisements lack enforceability. Comprehensive improvements to the system must be reviewed.”