The buzz around Disney+’s upcoming K-drama Delusion (also known as Hypnosis) is at an all-time high. Featuring fan-favorite stars Suzy and Kim Seon Ho, the series was set to release in 2026, promising an intricate mix of romance, mystery, and suspense.
However, the drama has already encountered multiple hurdles—from political backlash to environmental controversies—that may impact its production schedule and audience expectations.
Plot Overview and Production Background
Delusion is set in 1935 Gyeongseong (modern-day Seoul) and follows the story of painter Yun Yi-ho (Kim Seon Ho), who is commissioned to create a portrait of the enigmatic Song Jeong-hwa (Suzy). As Yi-ho delves deeper into capturing her essence, he uncovers a web of secrets, intrigue, and historical mysteries. According to Wikipedia, the drama is directed by Han Jae Rim, known for films such as The King and Emergency Declaration.
Key facts about the drama:
- Genre: Period mystery-romance
- Lead actors: Suzy (Song Jeong-hwa), Kim Seon Ho (Yun Yi-ho)
- Director: Han Jae Rim (The King, Emergency Declaration)
- Release: Scheduled for 2026 on Disney+
- Based on: Popular Naver Webtoon Delusion
China Filming Cancelled Due to Political Backlash
Initially, the production team planned to shoot scenes in Shanghai to match parts of the story. However, the overseas shoot was abruptly canceled. According to Koreaboo, the decision was likely influenced by the controversy surrounding another Disney+ drama, Tempest (also known as Polaris), which faced criticism from Chinese netizens over a dialogue referencing war and China.
- Disney+ confirmed that filming locations were under review and nothing had been finalized.
- Industry insiders suggest that avoiding an international location at this time was a precaution to manage political sensitivities (according to Pinkvilla)
Fact: The drama was originally scheduled to shoot in China from early to mid-October 2025 (according to India Today).
Domestic Filming and Alternative Locations
After canceling China shoots, the production shifted focus to domestic locations in South Korea. Vietnam is reportedly under consideration as an alternative location for certain sequences .
Production implications:
- Scheduling adjustments for the crew and equipment.
- Budget reallocation due to changes in logistics.
- Need for location scouting and permits within new domestic sites.
Delusion has a reported budget of 450 billion KRW (~$37 million USD), making these changes particularly impactful on production finances.
Jeju Island Environmental Controversy
According to Korea Herald During filming on Jeju Island, the production faced criticism for leaving behind trash at a forest location. A viral video on social media revealed discarded plastic bottles, coffee cup sleeves, and even promotional items featuring cast images.
The production issued a statement:
“Because filming ended late at night, it was too dark to thoroughly clean the site. Once aware, we immediately apologized and cleared all trash.”
Fact: according to Allkpop: A citizen petition was filed demanding fines under Korea’s Waste Control Act, and the production was penalized 1 million KRW (~$721 USD) for illegal dumping.
Impact on Production and Reputation
The combination of canceled overseas shoots and environmental controversies has put pressure on production:
- Increased budget due to logistic changes.
- Delays in filming schedule.
- Stricter scrutiny from local authorities and environmental groups.
- Need to maintain brand reputation among international audiences.
According to Koreaboo, the production team is making all efforts to adjust schedules and ensure compliance with regulations.
Fan Sentiment and Expectations
Despite the hurdles, excitement among fans remains high. The on-screen reunion of Suzy and Kim Seon Ho, combined with the period mystery and romance elements, is highly anticipated.
- Fans hope for responsible environmental practices in future shoots.
- They are closely watching for timeline adherence to ensure the drama releases in 2026.
- Social media engagement shows high expectations for storytelling quality and production value.
Looking Ahead
Key questions for Delusion include:
- Can the drama maintain its 2026 release schedule despite disruptions?
- Which alternative locations will be finalized for overseas scenes?
- How will the production manage environmental compliance moving forward?
- Will these controversies impact international viewership and reception?
The answers to these questions will shape both the success and legacy of Delusion as a high-profile K-drama.
Conclusion
Delusion is a remarkable instance of contemporary K-drama production in which creative thought and vision gets tangled up with political sensitivities, environmental responsibility and logistical demands. Starring Suzy and Kim Seon Ho in the lead roles and telling an engaging story based on a popular webtoon, the show has a lot of potential.
Still, in the end, its success in South Korea and globally will depend on how the production handles filming location issues, environmental backlash and political sensitivity.
