Korean netizens continued to show their disapproval toward medical dramas "heroizing" doctors, in light of the ongoing medical strike by doctors and medical school students.

Earlier this week, it was reported that the Netflix original medical drama 'The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call', starring Joo Ji Hoon and Choo Young Woo, was slated for release on January 24, 2025. 

The drama, based off of a webtoon series of the same name, tells the story of a genius surgeon who completely transforms an incapable university hospital trauma center. The story of the webtoon was written by 'Family of Hansan Lee' (Lee Nak Joon), an actual doctor by profession.

However, many netizens frowned upon the news of medical dramas making their return in 2025. With the medical strike in South Korea and the resulting staff shortages continuing to affect patients, hospitals, and society, many believe that medical dramas, which have a tendency to "romanticize" doctors and their work, may cross into the boundaries of "political propaganda".

Furthermore, netizens strongly criticized the plot line of 'The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call', which centers around one "genius" doctor and his heroism, using his knowledge and talents to "educate" all of the other "incapable" doctors, nurses, and staff at the trauma center.

Some netizens also disapproved of actor Joo Ji Hoon being cast as a doctor, as he was previously found guilty of illegal drug use in 2009 and sentenced to probation. 

Comments included,

"Please stop casting Joo Ji Hoon. No one wants to see that druggie."

"The author of that webtoon is on the side of the striking doctors. I'm not watching this."

"That webtoon was criticized for sexism in the past. There are no female doctors in the story, only nurses, including the only important female character. Plus, all of the medical professionals except for the main character are portrayed as fools."

"Why the heck did they cast a convicted criminal as a doctor..?"

"Is there some kind of hidden message here? About how South Korean doctors actually have connections with the illegal drug trade..?"

"Do they seriously think anyone is going to watch this."

"I do not want to see medical dramas in my Netflix suggestions."

"Is it a drama about a doctor who smuggles drugs from the hospital?"

"This guy really can't act. His pronunciation is terrible. There are plenty of other talented actors out there."

In fact, another medical drama, tvN's 'Wise Resident Life' starring Go Yoon Jung, was originally set to air in the summer of 2024 but was ultimately postponed "until further notice". Recently, some insiders claimed that the drama was aiming for release in July of 2025. 

SEE ALSO: Fans wonder why Actor Kang Tae Oh's Popularity doesn't match his Talent and Visuals