Nana Issues Heartfelt Apology over Lip Filler Controversy in Netflix’s ‘The Scandal’
South Korean actress Nana (Lim Jin-a) issues a sincere apology for the lip filler controversy surrounding her role as Hui-yeon in the new Netflix historical drama 'The Scandal,' which premiered September 18, 2026.
Renowned South Korean actress and former After School member, Nana, whose real name is Lim Jin-a, has formally apologised for the controversy sparked by her appearance in the new Netflix series, The Scandal. The 35-year-old star addressed public criticism regarding her perceived lip fillers, which many viewers felt were distracting and out of place in the Joseon-era drama, on Tuesday, September 22, 2026. K-Pop Band MEPC Member KKEKKE To Go on Hiatus for Medical Treatment - Read Statement.
Nana Apologises for Lip Filler Controversy
Nana conveyed her regret through Bubble, a subscription-based private messaging service popular among fans and artists for direct communication. Her statement comes just days after The Scandal premiered globally on Netflix on September 18, 2026, where she portrays the pivotal character of Hui-yeon, a chaste Joseon-era widow.
In her message, Nana candidly accepted responsibility for the viewers' discomfort. "If my lips made viewers uncomfortable, then that was my fault. I think it was a personal choice that wasn't the right one for me as an actor," she wrote. She further expressed concern for her fanbase, acknowledging the pain they might feel witnessing the harsh online criticism. "I imagine that my fans, who love me, must feel hurt seeing the harsh criticism directed at me, so I'm even more sorry. From now on, I'll do my best so that we can hear more positive things together."
Critics particularly noted that the fullness of her lips clashed with the historical setting of the drama and the solemnity required for her character, making it difficult for them to immerse themselves fully in the narrative. This marks Nana's first venture into a Korean historical drama, a role that required shedding her usual glamorous and contemporary image for a more restrained, traditional appearance.
'The Scandal's' Reception and Nana's Portrayal
The Scandal is an eight-part Netflix original series that re-imagines Pierre Choderlos de Laclos' 18th-century French novel Dangerous Liaisons, which was previously adapted into the 2003 Korean film Untold Scandal. The drama features a stellar cast, with Son Ye-jin starring as Lady Cho, Ji Chang-wook as Cho-won, and Nana as Hui-yeon.
Despite the personal controversy surrounding Nana's appearance, the series has garnered significant attention since its launch. The Scandal climbed to No. 7 on Netflix's Global Top 10 list for non-English TV shows just three days after its premiere. Netizens Choice 2026: BTS’ Jungkook and Thai GL Actress Lingling Kwong Lead Global Top 10 Winners – Full List Inside.
Nana's decision to address the backlash directly and express remorse has been met with varied reactions, but many commend her for her forthrightness and commitment to her craft. Her apology underscores the delicate balance actors must strike between personal choices and the demands of their professional roles, especially in period pieces where authenticity is paramount.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 23, 2026 05:34 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
