Shocked by Soaring House Prices, Head Split... Kian84 Sparks Controversy with 'Daekkye-moon' Satire

A webtoon scene by Kian84 that sparked controversy for evoking the term 'Daeggae-moon.' Photo by Naver Webtoon.

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bong-ju] Popular cartoonist and broadcaster Gian84 (real name Kim Hee-min, 36) once again criticized the government's real estate policies through his ongoing webtoon series.

Netizens expressed mixed opinions on this. While some argued that the political satire was excessive, others stated it was simply freedom of expression.

In episode 328, "Move-in Episode 1," of the Naver webtoon Return to School King, released on the 26th, the protagonist works delivery jobs without a single day off to buy a house. Despite earning up to 5 million won a month through hard work, he becomes frustrated as housing prices rise by another 100 million won in just a few days.

Eventually, the protagonist's "work motivation" cells are destroyed, and he collapses, hitting his head on the road and breaking it.

Some netizens criticized Gian84, saying that the image of the "head breaking" resembles the so-called "Ddaekkaemun," a term for ardent supporters of President Moon Jae-in. They responded with comments such as "Let's not talk about politics in webtoons" and "Satire should be done in moderation," pointing out Gian84's continuous satire of the administration.

On the other hand, there were reactions like "It's freedom of expression," "The content is relatable," and "Even if you get criticized, please show your steadfast will."

Previously, Gian84 also satirized the real estate market in episode 326 of Return to School King. The comic featured scenes where the protagonist said about the government's strongly recommended Happy Housing and rental housing, "Those houses are for you to live in as much as you want," and "They are just wrapped in good intentions." The protagonist reached out toward the moon, saying, "Sometimes it's frustrating. Even if I work this hard, there seems to be no way to buy a house. It's like a story I can never reach."