Super Junior’s Kyuhyun, once hailed as a standout contender on Netflix’s cerebral reality series The Devil’s Plan, is now at the center of a growing storm of online criticism. Initially celebrated for his calm intellect and graceful gameplay, the K-pop idol’s shifting strategies and controversial behavior have prompted accusations of manipulation and dishonesty from fans and viewers alike.
At the start of the series, Kyuhyun quickly rose to fan-favorite status. His ability to remain composed under pressure, coupled with early wins in logic-based games, painted him as a serious competitor. Audiences praised his quiet confidence, methodical thinking, and seemingly genuine nature—qualities that resonated with the show’s emphasis on intelligence and mental endurance.
However, as the competition intensified, Kyuhyun’s approach reportedly veered away from puzzles and logic and leaned heavily into strategic maneuvering. Rather than solving challenges on his own merit, critics argue he began building alliances, shifting loyalties, and making calculated decisions to outmaneuver others—moves some see as more cutthroat than clever.
While alliance-building is a familiar element in survival-style reality shows, The Devil’s Plan aims to showcase intellectual excellence over social manipulation. Kyuhyun’s actions, according to many online, betrayed that mission. Viewers have accused him of prioritizing political gameplay over fair competition—repeatedly partnering with players for mutual gain only to later betray them when it suited his agenda.
One of the most hotly debated aspects of his gameplay has been his dynamic with fellow contestant and actress Kang Ji Young. Clips of their interactions sparked criticism online, with fans calling out Kyuhyun’s tone as dismissive and overly harsh. Many felt his treatment of her crossed a line, suggesting his competitive spirit had soured into arrogance and disrespect.
Social media and fan forums have since erupted with disappointment. Supporters who once championed Kyuhyun’s intelligence and grace now express regret, saying his behavior reflects a side of him they hadn’t expected. Some even worry that the fallout from his actions on the show could cast a long shadow over his broader public image.
The Devil’s Plan, helmed by acclaimed producer Jung Jong Yeon—known for The Genius, The Great Escape, and Girls’ High School Mystery Class—brings together a diverse cast of thinkers, celebrities, and online personalities. Over seven intense days, contestants live under one roof and battle it out in games of logic, strategy, and psychological warfare. The goal? To be named the ultimate brain.
While Kyuhyun’s strategic pivot may have been within the rules of the game, many viewers feel it came at the cost of sincerity and integrity—qualities they expected from a contestant once seen as the embodiment of thoughtful competition. As debates continue to rage online, one thing is clear: Kyuhyun’s journey on The Devil’s Plan has sparked far more than just a conversation about gameplay—it’s ignited a full-blown character study.
