Cancellation of Gyeonggi Provincial Council Web Drama Broadcast: Aftermath of the Nimol Cash Controversy
The Gyeonggi Provincial Council has decided to cancel both the press conference and the premiere of the web drama “Assemblyman is Live,” starring creator Nimol Cash. Originally, the press conference was scheduled for October 7, 2026, with the drama’s episodes planned to be released sequentially starting on October 9. However, due to the controversy surrounding Nimol Cash’s personal life, the broadcasting plans have been completely suspended.
What kind of work is the Gyeonggi Provincial Council’s web drama “The Councilor is Live”?
“The Councilor is Live” is a web drama produced by the Gyeonggi Province Council to strengthen communication with younger generations. The drama, which uses live broadcasting as its theme, humorously depicts the journey of a trot singer on stage who transforms into a councilor representing the voices of the people.
The Gyeonggi Provincial Council, in a press release published in June 2026, introduced Nimol Cash as the main actor, playing the role of Jeong Yul. The council also announced plans to produce short-form content using key scenes from the main production to expand online promotion.
Public auditions and production schedule
This production was made using a method where some supporting and minor roles were selected through open auditions. According to a statement from the Gyeonggi Provincial Council, a total of 216 people applied for the auditions, and the actors who were ultimately selected were scheduled to begin filming in June 2026.
The cast includes actors Kim Myung-guk and Jung Chae-won, among others, and the work was scheduled to be released through the official YouTube channel of the Gyeonggi Provincial Council. However, a controversy surrounding the lead actor arose after filming was completed, which has changed the production schedule.
Nitmall Cash Controversy and Suspension of Activities
On September 29, 2026, a person claiming to be a former romantic partner of Nimol Cash released a post and audio recordings alleging that there were instances of verbal abuse and physical threats during their relationship. While the veracity of these claims requires verification from the parties involved, the controversy has spread to affect all of Nimol Cash’s planned activities, including advertising and television appearances.
NOB Entertainment, the agency representing Nitmallcash, issued a statement confirming that the individual’s inappropriate words and actions occurred, and apologized. The agency announced that all of Nitmallcash’s activities will be suspended.
The controversy, which began with individual actions, extended to promotional content produced by public institutions. In particular, since the web drama was intended to inform the public about the activities of the Gyeonggi Provincial Council and its communication with residents, the impact of the controversy on the actors and the image of the institution had to be considered.
Gyeonggi Province Council cancels press conference and broadcast of the full program
The Gyeonggi Provincial Council has canceled the scheduled press conference on October 7th, and has decided not to release the main episodes of the web drama, which were planned to be uploaded to the official YouTube channel starting on October 9th. Previously, some reports indicated that the decision was under review, but on September 30th, the decision to completely cancel the release was finalized.
This decision appears to be based on the assessment that if content is released without resolving the existing controversy, the controversy surrounding the participants may overshadow the original purpose of promoting the legislation. It is analyzed that this measure takes into account both public acceptance and the credibility of the institution, as the promotional materials were produced using public funds.
Production costs and actor fees refund issues
News1 and Newsis reported that the production and service contract for this web drama is approximately 280,000,000 Korean won. However, this amount refers to the overall production project, and is separate from the appearance fees paid to individual actors, including Nimol Cash.
The Gyeonggi Provincial Council is currently reviewing the possibility of recovering previously paid contributions and claiming contractual penalties. While provisions related to the standard contribution contract may apply, the actual recovery or claim for damages will depend on the specific terms of the contract and the results of legal reviews.
Tasks left by this case
This incident demonstrates the reputational risks that public institutions may face when using creators with widespread public recognition in promotional content. Regardless of popularity online, there is a need to more carefully review potential public content contributors and establish contractual liability clauses.
Furthermore, the disposal of already-completed content raises issues regarding the efficiency of budget allocation and the need for alternative distribution methods. It remains to be seen whether the Gyeonggi Provincial Council will establish procedures for verifying cast members, addressing potential controversies, and setting standards for reshoots and editing in future web drama or video promotion projects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the title of the web drama produced by the Gyeonggi Provincial Council?
The web drama is titled “The Councilor is Live.” It is a piece of content promoting the work of a local councilor, focusing on their interactions with citizens through live broadcasts.
What is the reason for the cancellation of the web drama broadcast?
A controversy surrounding the private life of Nimmolcash, the creator and lead actor, has led to the cancellation of both the press conference and the premiere of the project.
What was the original planned release date for the web drama?
Originally, the production announcement was scheduled for October 7, 2026, and the full episodes were planned to be released sequentially starting on October 9 through the official YouTube channel of the Gyeonggi Provincial Council.
What is the production cost of a web drama?
Multiple media outlets reported that the total production and service project cost is approximately 280,000,000 Korean won. This amount represents the overall project budget and is separate from the individual appearance fees of the performers.
Is the appearance fee for “N-mol Cash” refundable?
The Gyeonggi Provincial Council is currently reviewing the possibility of recovering the already disbursed subsidies and claiming potential breach of contract penalties. The final outcome will be determined based on the terms of the contract and legal reviews.
