TVING’s upcoming drama Dear X has faced unexpected controversy after its official launch poster was accused of plagiarizing the 2017 Chinese film The Devotion of Suspect X. The production team has since pulled the poster, issued an apology, and shifted focus to the series’ highly anticipated release on November 6, 2025.
The drama’s poster, unveiled on September 8, featured bold red lettering of “Dear X” against white torn paper, with lead actress Kim Yoo Jung appearing through the rips. Online users quickly pointed out its resemblance to the promotional artwork of The Devotion of Suspect X, noting similarities in the torn-paper motif, color scheme, and central character placement.
Responding to the criticism, the Dear X team admitted to the oversight. They stated: “We belatedly recognized the similarity with a certain reference.”
TVING confirmed the poster’s immediate removal from all platforms, adding: “We have taken measures to ensure the poster will not be used in the future. We will pay close attention through a thorough review process to make sure such an issue does not happen again.”
A new teaser poster, separate from the withdrawn design, has already captivated fans. It highlights the tense dynamic between Kim Yoo Jung and Kim Young Dae, with the phrase “May your destruction be my salvation.”
Despite the poster controversy, the hype surrounding Dear X continues to build. Adapted from Ban Ji Woon’s hit Naver webtoon, the story follows Baek Ah Jin (Kim Yoo Jung), a successful actress who hides a cruel and destructive nature behind her glamorous image. Her life intertwines with Yoon Jun Seo (Kim Young Dae), a man willing to endure destruction in order to protect her.
The series is co-written by Choi Ja-won, the 2018 KBS One-Act Drama Script Contest winner, and Ban Ji Woon, the original webtoon creator. Direction is led by Lee Eung Bok, the acclaimed producer behind Goblin, Mr. Sunshine, and Sweet Home, alongside co-director Park So Hyun.
Before its official release, Dear X was invited to the 30th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) under the “On Screen” category. Tickets for its screenings sold out immediately after going on sale on September 9.
Select episodes will be screened at the festival, followed by outdoor stage greetings and GV (guest visit) fan sessions with the cast on September 18 and 19.
With controversy addressed and excitement building, Dear X is now set for its official premiere on TVING, November 6, 2025.
