K-pop has an apathy problem. Recently, a post went viral on X (formerly Twitter) that sparked a heated debate. In the post, artists from the K-pop company HYBE were mocked for showing emotions. The post alleged that instead of focusing on talent, the company and its idols focus more on selling emotions and tears. This sparked massive outrage among netizens and led to a debate on how K-pop idols are not even seen as humans anymore.
HYBE Idols Mocked For Showing Vulnerability
Hate comments and trolls have always been an unfortunate part of K-pop culture. From looks to vocals, idols face criticism about everything they do. But lately, the negativity is becoming extreme. K-pop setup and troll accounts have been crossing every boundary possible to insult idols, with no regard for the artists’ mental health and well-being.
Recently, a video of LE SSERAFIM’s Sakura went viral, where the singer broke down mid-practice after feeling overwhelmed. While many sympathised with the Japanese singer, others claimed that she was “victimising herself.” Hurtful comments like “Stop crying and attend vocal lessons” were made.
Shortly after this, someone made a compilation of various HYBE idols crying or showing their vulnerable side in group content and documentaries. The post claimed that HYBE is profiting from these fragile moments and that it’s all part of their strategy. It received over 11k likes.
Over the years, HYBE has come under scrutiny for alleged chart manipulation and unfair practices. But these are not grounds for anyone to treat the K-pop idols under their company so maliciously.
BTS Jungkook has also been caught in controversy after he was spotted hanging out with a woman. Things soon turned ugly when people began commenting on his weight loss, saying he has HIV and comparing the idol to disgraced mogul Diddy. All these claims are obviously absurd and have no concrete evidence.
These disgusting comments are not exclusive to HYBE idols. K-pop idols in general often become targets of the most heinous remarks. BLACKPINK members are often criticised for their bodies and personal lives. BLACKPINK Jennie is almost every day sl*t-shamed by trolls.
Trolls are common in any fandom. However, K-pop idols are hated for everything they do or don’t do. Trolls who hide behind the anonymity of the internet, evading consequences, often forget that even though these people are celebrities and signed up for fame, no human being should be subjected to this treatment, K-pop idol or not.
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