The 10-million-viewer film "The King's Warden" has been hit with plagiarism allegations, which the production company firmly denies.
On the morning of the 10th, Onda Works stated, “'The King's Warden' is an original work based on historical facts. Every step of the creation process was thoroughly documented and can be verified.”
The company added, “Because it draws on historical figures and events, other works may appear similar. However, there was no exposure to or causal link with the work claiming similarity during our creative process, and there was absolutely no plagiarism of any other copyrighted material during planning, development, or production.”
They continued, “Therefore, the plagiarism claims are groundless. We will respond decisively through all available channels, including legal action.”
The plagiarism controversy surrounding "The King's Warden" spread following an MBN report on the 9th. According to the report, a theater actor surnamed Eom, who died in 2019, wrote a drama script in 2000 titled "Eom Hong-do." The late Eom’s family said they sent a certified letter to the production company demanding an explanation of the script’s creation process and sources, claiming substantial similarities with the film.
Eom’s family asserted that key scenes, setups, and story progression in both works are similar. They cited: Danjong eating at the recommendation of Eom Heung-do; Danjong initially refusing food but gradually opening up and expressing thanks; Eom Heung-do saving Danjong from jumping off a cliff; and details like Eom Heung-do’s son being an only child and a plotline involving an escort to a government office.
They added that they do not intend to fight the production but want the original writer’s name credited in the work.
Set in Cheongnyeongpo, where the deposed young king Danjong was exiled, "The King's Warden" is a historical drama about Danjong and village head Eom Heung-do. The film surpassed 10 million admissions nationwide 31 days after its release.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)