Overseas Interpreted as 'Artist Bullying'
Bullying Issues in the K-pop Industry Highlighted Multiple Times
Just days after Rise member Seunghan voluntarily decided to leave the group amid so-called 'privacy controversy,' the sparks of the controversy appear to be spreading overseas. Some overseas K-pop merchandise distributors have interpreted Seunghan's withdrawal process as 'collective bullying of the artist' and are showing signs of 'halting merchandise imports.' Some voices express concerns that this incident could damage the overall international image of K-pop.
The K-pop merchandise distribution company 'Eve Pink,' headquartered in Houston, Texas, USA, released a statement on its official social media on the 16th, announcing that it will "stop restocking Rise-related merchandise." However, regarding items already ordered and on sale, they explained, "We will continue to accept orders regardless of this decision, and we do not have the right to cancel or refund albums or merchandise already ordered."
A condolence wreath sent to SM Entertainment headquarters by some fans opposing the return of group RISE member Seunghan [Image source=Online community capture]
The reason Eve Pink took this measure is due to Rise member Seunghan's decision to withdraw. The company emphasized, "We believe artists should work in an environment where they are respected and supported," adding, "We cannot accept or tolerate bullying or toxic behavior."
They also expressed gratitude to some international Rise fans who informed the company about this controversy, saying, "We hope the artists you support receive respect and support."
In fact, it has been reported that several K-pop merchandise distributors are joining this movement. The large K-pop merchandise import company in the Philippines, 'Seoul Stop,' also announced it would stop restocking Rise merchandise. If this trend spreads further, it could potentially harm the group's secondary intellectual property (IP) imports.
Statement from Eve Pink, a goods retail company headquartered in Texas, USA [Image source=Capture from X]
Earlier, Rise member Seunghan announced his voluntary withdrawal on the 13th. Seunghan, a former SM Entertainment Rookie, debuted with Rise in September last year but caused controversy when private photos and videos taken during his trainee days were leaked online. Eventually, he decided to suspend team activities indefinitely in November of the same year and chose to take time for self-reflection.
On the 11th, Seunghan announced his planned return through his agency, 'Wizard Production.' However, fan backlash was intense. There was even a spectacle of mass delivery and display of protest 'condolence wreaths' at the SM building. Ultimately, just two days after announcing his return, on the 13th, Seunghan declared his intention to withdraw.
This incident appears to some overseas K-pop fans as 'collective bullying of the artist.' In fact, bullying issues within the K-pop industry have often been highlighted by various foreign media outlets. Some fans expressed concerns, saying, "This incident has brought international embarrassment to K-pop," and "The aftermath could become even bigger."
Recently, bullying issues toward idol singers have also become a hot topic domestically. Hani, a member of the group NewJeans, attended a National Assembly Environment and Labor Committee (Hwanowi) audit as a witness the day before to clarify her position regarding workplace bullying allegations surrounding the headquarters 'HYBE.'
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