Ma Dong Seok’s ‘The Roundup’ Receives Complaint From Disabled Groups – Here’s Why
Ma Dong Seok's blockbuster movie "The Roundup" is in the hot waters after a disabled group slammed the film for promoting "hatred and prejudice." Following the success of the action movie, which is the sequel to 2017's "The Outlaws," Korea Association for Mental Disorders and the Research Institute for the Rights and Interests of the Disabled sought help from the Human Right Commission for disrespecting people with mental disorders. Keep on reading for all the details.
Disabled Groups Wants 'The Roundup' to Halt Screening in Theaters
As obtained by a local media outlet, these groups filed a complaint to the Human Right Commission, expressing disappointment towards the movie.
In a press conference held in front of the department, the groups demanded to halt the screening of "The Roundup."
According to the report, the group pointed out that the film depicts "people with mental disorders and mental disorders as criminals."
Moreover, "The Roundup" was criticized for illustrating the "mentally disabled as a violent and dangerous criminal, and makes them perceived as unpredictable and violent."
With this, the groups highlighted their "deep regret that the box-office movie that has surpassed 10 million viewers is spreading negative perceptions about mental illness and mental disorders."
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Ma Dong Seok's 'The Roundup' Exceeds 12 Million Viewers
The said scene in "The Roundup" featured a man wearing a hospital uniform who takes hostages in a local supermarket and engages in sword fighting.
There is also a scene where the person said "I escaped from a mental hospital" which the group mentioned gave negative connotations to those who are suffering from mental disorders.
'The Roundup' Responds to Complaints Raised by Disabled Groups
In the same report, representatives of the production company under "The Roundup" addressed the issue.
In an official statement, they explained that the scene was not intended negatively and hoped that viewers would understand its meaning.
The report also mentioned that the production company "did not apologize or take action" regarding the matter.
As for the group, besides raising their concern and demanding "The Roundup" stop its theater screening, they also wanted a public apology and an interview with the movie's production team.
'The Roundup's' Achievements in Korean Box Office
On June 27, "The Roundup" became the 14th movie to exceed 12 million viewers at the Korean box office.
As noted by an outlet, the Korean Film Council cited that the "The Outlaws" sequel officially hit the 12 million mark, joining the country's top-selling films in history, which include "The King and the Clown," "Masquerade," and "A Taxi Driver."
"The Roundup" stars Ma Dong Seok reprising his role as detective Ma Suk Do and Son Seok Koo as the new villain.
READ MORE: Son Seok Koo Supremacy! The Roundup' Star Tops June Star Brand Reputation Rankings
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Written by Geca Wills
