30-Year Gap? Michelle Chen & Zhou Keyu's Kiss in 'Sniper Butterfly' Sparks K-Netizen Debate

Can a massive age gap break the immersion of a romance? A steamy scene from the Chinese drama 'Sniper Butterfly' has gone viral in Korea, leaving netizens divided over the chemistry between leads Michelle Chen and Zhou Keyu. The passionate encounter has ignited fierce discussions across various online forums.

From 'National First Love' to Bold Romantic Leads

According to Koreaboo, the buzz started when a clip of the two actors' kissing scene began circulating. Michelle Chen, beloved in Korea for her iconic role in 'You Are the Apple of My Eye,' portrays a mature character opposite the 23-year-old rising star Zhou Keyu. The age difference, estimated to be around 19 years in real life, has become the primary talking point for viewers accustomed to more traditional casting.

Korean Netizens React: A Cringe Factor or Artistic Freedom?

The reactions in Korea are sharply polarized. Some netizens expressed discomfort, stating that the "age gap is too distracting to enjoy the plot" and that the pairing felt "more like a mother and son." On the other hand, many fans defended the production, arguing that "actors are simply performing their roles" and praising the bold direction of C-dramas. The show has unintentionally become a case study in how cultural perceptions of 'noona romances' differ between neighboring markets.