'Pro-China Controversy' Henry: "Please View Cross-National Exchanges with Warmth"

Photo by Monster

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Isul] Henry, a Chinese-Canadian singer, recently clarified the 'pro-China controversy' that arose, and his agency also issued a statement, correcting some of the misunderstandings as 'misinterpretations.'

Henry recently sparked debate after wearing a mask featuring the Chinese national flag, the Five-star Red Flag, and posting pro-China messages. Through his social network service (SNS), he appeared to support China's territorial claims in the South China Sea, and there was disappointment when he remained silent as a Korean fan dance was introduced as a traditional Chinese dance on a Chinese variety show.

In response, on the 19th, Henry posted on his SNS, "I am someone who brings joy, emotion, and laughter to people, but these days I am so heartbroken that I cannot do that," adding, "I would never forget or abandon where I come from. Due to COVID-19, if I were to go somewhere, I would have to stay for at least a few months, and I apologize for that. I missed you all too," expressing his feelings.

He continued, "Most people are uncomfortable not because of my actions or words, but because of my blood," and said, "If there are people who are uncomfortable because of my blood, I really don't know what to do. I am most sorry to my fans," he lamented.

On the 21st, his agency, Monster Entertainment Group, issued a statement saying, "We apologize for causing concern due to recent misunderstandings, distorted rumors, and inaccurate reports."

The agency explained, "Henry expressed his feelings directly through SNS, but we regret that inaccurate wording and unrefined expressions caused confusion," adding, "In our frustration, we were too eager to clear up misunderstandings first."

They also stated, "Henry was raised and educated in Canada during his childhood and has devoted his life to music. Because of this, there are many unfamiliar and lacking areas," and added, "He has been able to communicate with fans worldwide with a heart that respects everyone."

Photo by Monster

When Henry was recently appointed as a school violence prevention ambassador by the Mapo Police Station in Seoul, some opposed the appointment, citing his pro-China actions as inappropriate.

Regarding this, the agency said, "Music has great meaning in that it connects people more closely without any barriers and spreads positive energy. We considered this school violence prevention ambassador role as a very meaningful activity in that regard, but we feel very sorry and heavy-hearted about the unforeseen misunderstandings and negative views."

Regarding allegations that only anti-China comments on Henry's YouTube channel 'Together Henry' were deleted, the agency denied this as "malicious distortion."

The agency explained, "Since many children watch the content, we have prioritized creating a healthy atmosphere. Regardless of the subject, all comments harmful to minors, malicious comments, slander, and those inciting conflict have been inevitably deleted and filtered through subscriber reports. The rumors being spread through intentionally edited screenshots are completely false."

They added, "Henry is an artist who has focused solely on music and the arts. If there is an expanded field, it is that he has made many efforts to provide more opportunities for children, especially musically gifted youth. He has lived his life valuing joyful exchanges and sharing hearts with all people living in the same era beyond nationality," and requested, "He will continue to uphold these values without change, and we ask for your warm support."

Henry was born to a Hong Kong father who immigrated to Canada and a Taiwanese mother, and his nationality is Canadian. He debuted in 2008 as a member of the group Super Junior-M and is currently active as a solo artist. In 2018, he left SM Entertainment and joined Monster Entertainment, where his older brother serves as CEO.