Disney+ original variety show "Fate War 49" has become embroiled in controversy over fortune-telling of a fallen firefighter. Episodes 1 to 4, released on February 11, included scenes interpreting the fortune of a firefighter who died in the line of duty, which led to backlash from the bereaved family. The family claims that the producers' explanation of the intent differs from what was actually presented.

"Fate War 49" is a survival program where 49 fortune-tellers gather to complete various missions and test their own fate. The first mission, "Guess the Cause of Death," required the fortune-tellers to deduce the cause of death based on the deceased's photo, birth date, and date of death. The controversy centers on the process of guessing the cause of death of the late Firefighter Kim Cheol-hong, who died in the 2001 fire in Hongje-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul. Kim is well known to the public as the person who popularized the "Firefighter's Prayer."

In the broadcast, some participants referred to the deceased's death circumstances as if divining, describing Kim's fortune as "a firefighter who worked amidst flames." One participant said, "When I gave the deceased's fortune to an elder, they said this fortune itself is of someone close to fire," interpreting the deceased's fortune. Another participant said, "The word 'fallen in the line of duty' came to mind first," claiming that the deceased died trapped in the fire. Yet another participant explained the death by saying, "There was a strong feeling of suffocation and being crushed."

After this scene aired, criticism spread online, saying, "This is disrespectful to the deceased." The bereaved family also protested, stating that although the producers sought consent for the deceased's appearance, they did not adequately explain the nature of the content. The family said, "We were told it was a documentary for a hero, not a shamanistic program."

A netizen claiming to be the deceased's nephew expressed dissatisfaction on social media, saying, "We agreed because they said they were making documentaries about heroes, martyrs, and doctors." He added, "Colleagues of the firefighter say they are being contacted by the bereaved family. Even the colleagues say they feel uncomfortable appearing on such a show." He also said, "I checked with the deceased's sister. Consent was given, but it was not for shamanistic content," expressing his dismay.

The producers insert a disclaimer at the end of each episode stating, "The opinions of the participants in this program are personal views and do not represent the position of the producers or the program provider." However, the bereaved family claims they were not informed that the program was a shamanistic survival variety show.

As of now, the production company has not released an official statement regarding this matter. "Fate War 49" is scheduled to release episodes 5 to 7 on February 18.