The controversy surrounding the use of the Gyeongsang dialect ending "-no" continues, with MBC's drama and entertainment programs now under scrutiny, leading to accusations of double standards.
On July 6, various online communities and social media platforms highlighted MBC's Friday-Saturday drama "Roh Moo-sah Roh Mu-jin" and the entertainment show "What Do You Do When You Play?"
Netizens noted that the drama's protagonist, Roh Moo-sah Roh Mu-jin, evokes memories of former President Roh Moo-hyun, questioning whether MBC's marketing strategy is appropriate. Comments included, "Is this acceptable marketing by MBC?" and "If it's okay to use a borrowed name, why is the dialect 'no' not allowed?" Others remarked, "Isn't this just noise marketing?" and "Did a member from that site create this?" Many expressed frustration, saying, "They use it for marketing while framing only idols with Ilbe. There’s a limit to hypocrisy."
The controversy intensified as it was revealed that the drama was initially scheduled to air on May 23.
Additionally, scenes from MBC's flagship entertainment program "What Do You Do When You Play?" showed cast members naturally using the "-no" ending, further fueling the double standards debate.
Moreover, the Gyeongnam MBC PD involved in the controversy was found to have used the "-no" subtitle in a regional program, amplifying the fallout.
The issue began when Risen member One used the Gyeongsang dialect phrase "scary" in broadcasts and YouTube content. A Gyeongnam MBC PD from Busan expressed on social media that he felt upset seeing a female idol and a PD exchanging the "-no" ending.
The PD later elaborated in a lengthy post, stating, "The current use of '-no' often does not conform to proper grammar," and warned that derogatory expressions are contaminating the dialect itself. He emphasized the need to reconsider its use if it causes harm to others.
In response, the Korean Language Institute at Dong-A University explained that the historical use of the "-no" ending in southeastern dialects includes various applications beyond questions, such as exclamations and monologues. This led to counterarguments online asserting that linking regional dialects to Ilbe is excessive.
Ultimately, the controversy spilled into the political arena. Former Justice Minister Cho Kuk claimed on social media that Ilbe users mechanically attach "-no" to standard language. In response, Lee Jun-seok, leader of the Reform Party, criticized the notion of judging ideology based on language use, stating, "The stigmatization continues despite explanations from linguists."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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