The much-awaited Netflix K-drama Genie, Make a Wish, starring Kim Woo Bin and Bae Suzy, finally premiered on October 3, 2025. But instead of excitement alone, the show’s release quickly turned into a heated discussion. The fantasy rom-com drew backlash from global audiences, especially Muslim viewers, because of how it portrayed a central religious figure, Iblis.
What’s the ‘Genie, Make a Wish’ Backlash About?
The controversy began with Kim Woo Bin’s character, a genie who introduces himself as “Iblis.” In Islamic belief, Iblis isn’t a magical wish-granting being—he is the equivalent of Satan, the one who defied God by refusing to bow to Adam. Portraying him as a charming, misunderstood genie who falls in love completely flips that meaning.
Many viewers felt that the drama was romanticizing a sacred and evil figure, turning a deeply theological concept into a lighthearted love story. As one fan pointed out online,
“Why on earth would they adopt the Iblis concept from Islam?? In our faith, he is literally the embodiment of ultimate evil and now like we are really meant to root for an Iblis love arc??”
Muslim Viewers Outraged for Twisting Quranic Verses
A major point of criticism was twisting Quranic verses to fit the drama’s narratives. In the drama’s opening scene, Kim Woo Bin’s character is seen saying,
“And then he commanded all to bow their heads to the first human he created; all angels and surviving genies bowed their heads, but I refused to do so. I, who was created from smokeless fire, could not bow my head to a human, molded from mere clay. Enraged, he threw me out of heaven.”
Many believe the drama makers twisted the following verse of the Quran in the genie’s introductory scene
When we told the angels, ‘Bow down before Adam,’ they all bowed except Iblis. He refused and gloried in his arrogance, becoming one of the disbelievers.
Fans React: Outrage and Calls for Cancellation
Soon after the premiere, social media erupted with criticism and calls for the cancellation of Genie, Make a Wish. Viewers felt uncomfortable being asked to empathize with a figure who, in their faith, represents ultimate corruption.
Many accused the writers, including Kim Eun Sook, of cultural insensitivity and “blatant disrespect.” Fans noticed the drama merged different concepts—Iblis, jinn, and genie—which have separate meanings in Islamic tradition.
One viewer summed it up with the now-viral quote, “My religion is NOT your costume.”
What the ‘Genie, Make A Wish’ Actually Portrays
Inside the show, Iblis is portrayed as a genie banished to hell for disobeying humans. He makes a deal with God to test humanity’s greed through three wishes. His story takes a turn when he meets Ka Young (played by Suzy), who is revealed to be the reincarnation of a kind-hearted girl from centuries ago.
The plot mixes revenge, love, and redemption, with Iblis slowly discovering compassion and humanity again.
How the Cast and Creators Responded
After the backlash, the team behind the show tried to clear the air. Kim Woo Bin shared during the press conference that viewers might better understand the character’s name and story arc once they watch the whole series. She emphasized that the drama is meant to be a fictional tale about humanity and forgiveness, not a commentary on religion.
The writers also defended the creative choice, explaining that it’s a reimagined story, not a direct religious representation. Still, many felt the name “Iblis” should’ve been avoided altogether.
