Disney+ series 'The Remarried Empress' faces costume ridicule after actor reveals

The Disney+ original series 'The Remarried Empress' is facing intense online debate over its romance fantasy styling following the release of promotional cuts for Lee Joon-hyuk on the 11th. The controversy follows previous criticism of Ju Ji-hoon's mint-colored imperial attire, which some viewers claimed made the actor's complexion appear dark.

The Disney+ original series 'The Remarried Empress' is at the center of continuous discussion due to controversies surrounding the actors' costumes. Following the release of Ju Ji-hoon's imperial attire, which drew mixed reactions regarding its color and makeup, Lee Joon-hyuk's royal costume for his special appearance has now ignited heated online responses. The styling intended to realize the unique romance fantasy worldview is simultaneously driving the series' popularity and serving as a target for ridicule and criticism.

Previously, Ju Ji-hoon played the role of Sovieshu, the Emperor of the Eastern Empire, showcasing flamboyant costumes and makeup. However, viewers' reactions were divided after images were released, with some pointing out that the overly vivid mint-colored outfit and its hues made the actor's complexion appear dark. Evaluations suggested a gap between the intention to express the character's dignity and the actual visuals implemented on screen.

Ju Ji-hoon appeared to be aware of the online reactions to his attire, responding with witty remarks. He joked, "Every time I put on the prepared clothes, I thought, 'Is this even possible? Is it okay to be this see-through?'" adding, "I felt like everyone was laughing at me," which drew laughter. The topic gained more traction as the actor himself was clearly aware of the unique design of the costumes.

Now, Lee Joon-hyuk has found himself at the center of the costume controversy. In promotional cuts released on the 11th, Lee Joon-hyuk made a special appearance as Warton III, the King of the Western Kingdom and the older brother of Heinrey. When his styling—a blue suit paired with ornate decorations and a cape—was revealed, online reactions were split between those claiming the outfit was excessive and those praising the actor for pulling it off excellently. Following Ju Ji-hoon, the reveal of Lee Joon-hyuk in unique romance fantasy attire has once again spread interest regarding the series' styling.

However, the photos in question are on-site images that have not undergone color correction, meaning they may differ from the actual broadcast footage. Nevertheless, the exaggerated silhouettes, ornate accessories, and intense colors characteristic of the romance fantasy genre, which differ from the costume conventions of familiar modern or historical dramas, are being perceived as unfamiliar by viewers. The genre's characteristic of pursuing visual maximization of a fantasy world rather than realistic costume reproduction is acting as a factor that increases mixed opinions.

This is not the first controversy involving costumes and props. Recently, attention was drawn to claims that a necklace worn by Lee Se-young, who plays Rashta, was similar to a product sold for around 2,000 won on the Chinese online shopping mall Temu. However, it was confirmed that the necklace used in the production has no connection to that product. The production team explained, "It was purchased from a local vintage shop in Europe," adding that due to the nature of shopping malls that carry various goods, it is possible for products with similar designs to be sold.

On the other hand, Lee Jong-suk received a relatively positive response when details of his costume preparation were revealed. It was disclosed that Lim Young-woong's concert attire was referenced and a separate production was commissioned for Heinrey's costume. Interest was gathered as it was revealed that specific reference cases were sought and effort was put into production to implement a style that suited the character's image and the series' worldview. This serves as an example showing how public evaluation can change when explanations regarding the preparation process and design are made public, even for costumes within the same work.

The costume controversies following Ju Ji-hoon and Lee Joon-hyuk reveal a point of conflict between the visual grammar of the romance fantasy implemented by 'The Remarried Empress' and the familiar aesthetic standards of the public. While flamboyant and exaggerated costumes are a core element forming the identity of the genre, they can also become objects of laughter and ridicule if they clash with a sense of realism. In an era where the popularity of a work is determined not only by the actors' acting and narrative but also by costumes and makeup, attention is focused on how far the visual debate over 'The Remarried Empress' will continue.

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