K-pop Group Enhypen Japanese Member Apologizes After Controversy Over "Wish We Could Rest on Samiljeol" Comment

Controversy Over "Nice to Have a Holiday" Comment in Fan Community
"Misunderstood... Will Be More Careful Moving Forward" Apology

Niki, the Japanese member of K-pop group ENHYPEN, apologized for the controversy sparked by his remarks related to Samiljeol (Independence Movement Day).

On the morning of the 1st, Niki posted on Weverse, "I apologize for my careless expression regarding the important national holiday, Samiljeol." The previous afternoon, when a fan on the fan community platform said, "Korea is off tomorrow. It's 3.1 Jeol," Niki commented, "I'm jealous. I want to rest too," which caused controversy.

Niki's reaction was interpreted as inappropriate due to his ignorance of the historical background of Samiljeol, despite being active in Korea. Because of his Japanese nationality, he faced criticism online. Some pointed out, "Although he is a foreigner and may not know well, since he is active in Korea, education about Korean history and culture is necessary."

ENHYPEN's Japanese member Niki
[Photo by ENHYPEN Official Instagram]

In response, Niki said, "I realized my mistake and immediately deleted the post," adding, "I will be more careful in the future."

ENHYPEN is a seven-member multinational boy group consisting of six Koreans, including dual nationals from the U.S. and Australia, and one Japanese member. They were formed through the joint idol reality survival program 'I-LAND' by CJ ENM and Big Hit Entertainment, debuting on November 30, 2020.