Streaming platform TVING has faced backlash over the poster for its upcoming drama Dear X (written by Choi Ja-won and Ban Ji-woon, directed by Lee Eung-bok and Park So-hyun). The company acknowledged plagiarism concerns and immediately halted the poster's use.

Poster Withdrawn After Backlash

On September 9, TVING admitted to Dispatch that it had "belatedly recognized the similarities with a specific reference." The launch poster has since been removed from all official platforms, including social media. "We have decided to stop using the poster going forward," the production team explained.

The company also issued an apology and promised stronger internal reviews. A TVING representative said, "We will strengthen our inspection process to ensure similar incidents do not happen again."

Similarities to Suspect X's Devotion

The poster, unveiled on September 8, showed actress Kim Yoo-jung peeking through torn white paper, with the title Dear X written in bold red letters.

Netizens quickly pointed out striking similarities to the 2017 Chinese film Suspect X's Devotion, adapted from Keigo Higashino's novel The Devotion of Suspect X. The ripped-paper effect, bold use of red, the placement of the protagonist, and the emphasis on the letter "X" all drew accusations of plagiarism.

Directed by Alec Su, the film was widely promoted with a poster that carried these exact design elements, making comparisons unavoidable.

Drama Set for November Release

Despite the controversy, Dear X will proceed with its release. The series follows a woman who hides behind a mask to rise to the top, trampling the "X" figures she leaves in her path.

Dear X is scheduled to premiere on November 6.