The highly anticipated film adaptation of the popular web novel Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint, now titled The Prophet: Omniscient Reader, has sparked controversy among fans following the release of its first teaser on Saturday, Feb. 15. The movie, set to premiere in July 2025, features an all-star cast, including Lee Min-ho, Ahn Shop, and BLACKPINK's Jisoo.
At the center of the debate is Jisoo's portrayal of Lee Ji-hye, a character beloved by fans of the original work. In the web novel, Lee Ji-hye is known for wielding a sword, a weapon choice tied to her "sponsor," the Maritime War God based on General Yi Sun-sin. However, the teaser shows Jisoo's character holding a gun, a departure that has left many fans puzzled and concerned.
What's Behind the Controversy?
This change has ignited discussions about the adaptation's faithfulness to the source material. Fans argue that the sword is not merely a weapon choice but carries significant meaning within the story's context.
The Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint is a popular Korean web novel that follows Kim Dokja, an ordinary office worker who suddenly finds himself thrust into a world where his favorite web novel, "Three Ways to Survive the Apocalypse," has become a reality.
A key element of the story is the concept of "sponsorship" by powerful beings called Constellations. These god-like entities watch the unfolding events like a reality show and can choose to sponsor human "incarnations" by granting them powers and abilities. Sponsorship involves forming a contract between the Constellation and the incarnation, with the Constellation providing support in exchange for entertainment value.
Some worry that the adaptation may alter fundamental aspects of the narrative by replacing Jisoo's supposed sword with a gun.
"Getting rid of the idea of constellation sponsorships basically destroys the core of Omniscient Reader," one Korean netizen commented.
"I can't help but think it was because the production company wanted to play it safe for premiering in Japan, too. It's not for a Korean audience. It's to sell internationally," another said.
The exact release date for the movie has not been announced yet. Because the film is set for a theatrical release, it is expected to be shown in cinemas first. It is unclear if the movie will eventually be available on streaming or digital release.
