Netflix Investigates IU & Park Bo Gum’s When Life Gives You Tangerines Over On-Set Mistreatment Allegations

Netflix’s highly anticipated Korean drama, "When Life Gives You Tangerines," starring IU and Park Bo Gum, is facing serious backlash following allegations of mistreatment, unpaid labor, and unsafe working conditions during production. The controversy has triggered a broader conversation about working standards in the South Korean entertainment industry.

Netflix Confirms Internal Investigation After Mistreatment Allegations Surface

On May 28, a Netflix spokesperson confirmed that the streaming giant is conducting an internal investigation into the reported incidents on the set of When Life Gives You Tangerines. In a statement to Korean media outlet News1, Netflix said it is “working closely with our Korean production partners to improve working conditions” and is committed to “thoroughly reviewing the facts to prevent similar incidents in the future.”

Social Media Post Goes Viral, Sparks Public Outrage

The issue gained traction after a post on X (formerly Twitter) detailed troubling on-set behavior. According to the post, industrial lacquer spray was used inside a rented bus, potentially causing damage to the interior. When concerns were raised, a staff member allegedly responded dismissively, saying it could be “cleaned off with thinner.”

Reports of Unpaid Labor and Long Working Hours Without Rest

Further allegations came from an individual who claimed they were asked to drive crew members across three different cities—Jeonju, Beolgyo, and Andong—without pay, rest, or adequate lodging. They described the experience as exhausting and exploitative, emphasizing the lack of proper meals and accommodations during the shoot.

Extras Report Degrading Treatment and Lack of Basic Amenities

Multiple extras involved in the production also came forward, as reported by Allkpop, citing invasive styling demands and poor treatment. They alleged they were pressured to cut their hair without informed consent to fit the show’s aesthetic. Others claimed that rather than receiving catered meals or access to a tea table, they were taken to random restaurants and given just 30 minutes to eat.

There were also complaints about filming in cold weather without being allowed to wear thermal underwear, as the costume department reportedly said it would interfere with how the outfits looked on camera. Those affected described the environment as “inhumane.”

Budget Concerns: How Could This Happen on a 60 Billion KRW Production?

Many have questioned how such conditions could occur on a production reportedly backed by a 60 billion KRW budget (approx. USD 43.65 million). Critics argue that with such a significant investment, worker welfare should have been a priority.

Netflix Promises Accountability and Future Preventive Measures

In response to the mounting backlash, Netflix has vowed a full-scale investigation and stated that an official position will be released after verifying all claims. The platform has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring ethical production practices and better oversight of its international content partnerships.