SBS drama Doctor X: Mafia in White is facing increased criticism from parts of the medical community, with one doctor saying they have now filed a formal request for the series to undergo broadcast review.
The controversy began after some viewers and medical professionals questioned the drama’s portrayal of doctors and the accuracy of certain hospital scenes. The discussion has now moved beyond online criticism after a person identifying themselves as an orthopedic doctor shared what appeared to be a submission to a broadcast review body.
Explaining the request, the doctor claimed, *“The drama repeatedly portrays rounds as unnecessary busywork, simplifies medical staff into incompetent villains, and ignores the uncertainty involved in medical treatment.”*
The doctor added, *“I understand dramatic exaggeration, but I believed this could create a distorted understanding of medical reality.”*
Doctor X: Mafia in White, which premiered on October 9, is a Korean remake of a popular Japanese medical series. Kim Ji Won stars as Kye Soo Jung, a highly skilled surgeon who openly challenges doctors she believes are too focused on status and hospital politics.
Several of Soo Jung’s sharp lines have drawn particular attention. In one scene, she criticizes fellow doctors by saying, *“I don’t like you. People who only studied to make money and move up, without ethics or conviction.”*
She later adds, *“A patient’s life is at stake, but all you think about is how to avoid responsibility. You guys are really lame.”*
The dialogue is presented as part of the character’s confrontational personality and the drama’s criticism of institutional problems. However, some doctors have argued that the series goes too far by portraying medical professionals in an overly negative way and could encourage distrust toward doctors.
The controversy comes as the drama continues to post strong ratings. According to Nielsen Korea, Doctor X: Mafia in White recorded 11.4% nationwide for its premiere before rising to 14.9% with episode 2.
With a formal review request now reportedly submitted, the debate surrounding Doctor X: Mafia in White has escalated from criticism over its medical portrayal to a potential regulatory review.
