The Korea Communications Standards Commission (KCSC) has ruled to issue a “caution” to JTBC’s reality program Divorce Retreat: Refresh, citing concerns over excessive sensationalism in its depiction of marital conflicts.

During a general meeting held on February 10 at the Broadcasting Center in Mok-dong, the KCSC unanimously agreed on the decision following multiple complaints about the show’s content. The ruling was made after a review of episodes that aired on April 4, May 9, and May 16, which contained controversial material.

One of the primary concerns involved scenes in which a husband verbally abused his wife while intoxicated and another in which a husband made excessive sexual demands. Additionally, a remark made by an obstetrician-gynecologist on the May 16 episode drew criticism. The expert stated, “I took a testosterone shot once, and I was shocked. Men looked sexy, like a dog in heat,” a comment that some viewers found highly inappropriate.

A complaint filed against the program argued that such statements reinforced gender stereotypes and promoted a biased understanding of male sexuality. The complainant stated, “The comment implies that men’s heightened sexual desire should be accepted and understood, which may perpetuate harmful gender norms.”

In response, a JTBC representative defended the program, saying, “We aimed to present realistic portrayals of marital issues to experts for discussion, but we acknowledge that some scenes may have been uncomfortable for viewers.”

However, the KCSC panel took a firm stance against the network’s approach. Commissioner Kang Kyung Pil questioned the program’s intent, stating, “It’s difficult to understand what this show is trying to achieve.” Commissioner Kim Jung Soo added, “The program is rated for viewers aged 15 and older, but the language and subtitles are completely inappropriate for that audience.” Chairman Ryu Hee Rim further criticized the show’s explicit content, remarking, “The level of profanity and negative emotional expressions is extreme to the point of being offensive.”

The KCSC’s disciplinary measures range from “no violation” and administrative guidance such as “recommendations” and “advisories” to legal sanctions, including “cautions,” “warnings,” “program corrections, suspensions, or staff reprimands,” and “fines.” From the level of legal sanctions onward, these rulings can negatively impact a broadcaster’s license renewal or reauthorization.

With this ruling, JTBC’s Divorce Retreat: Refresh now faces heightened scrutiny, raising questions about the ethical boundaries of reality television and the responsibility of networks in handling sensitive subjects.

Sayart / Kelly.K, pittou8181@gmail.com