“Knetizens Do Not Deserve Him” — Online Backlash Against OT6 Fans After RIIZE’s Seunghan Seen Visiting Support Ads Following Protest Wreath Sightings

On October 14, 2024, The Korea Times disclosed that SM Entertainment has officially confirmed Seunghan’s exit from the boy group RIIZE. Initially announced on October 11, there were expectations of his comeback following a lengthy break of over 10 months that began in November 2023. However, in light of the controversies surrounding him in 2023, SM Entertainment ultimately decided to part ways with him.

To provide some context, Seunghan found himself at the center of various scandals in 2023 after images emerged online suggesting he was smoking. This was followed by the release of photos of him engaging in a kiss with an alleged girlfriend, which led to significant backlash. As a result, SM Entertainment suspended his activities and placed him on hiatus.

This announcement triggered a substantial response from RIIZE’s fan community, stirring protests and organized boycotts demanding Seunghan’s permanent removal from the group. Despite an initial decision to reinstate him after 10 months, the backlash intensified when some netizens began sending wreaths to the agency.

Prior to the public notice about his disengagement on October 13, a number of Korean netizens reportedly placed death wreaths outside the SM Entertainment headquarters, urging Seunghan’s dismissal from RIIZE. Reports from @AboutMusicYT indicated that the 21-year-old idol was seen contemplating these wreaths as he passed by.

In response to the turmoil, Wizard Production, an SM Entertainment subsidiary, expressed regret to fans. They issued a statement via RIIZE’s official X account:

“We extend our sincerest apologies for the distress and confusion we caused BRIIZE (RIIZE’s official fandom) with the announcement of Seunghan’s return. We hoped that Seunghan’s return would offer him a chance to reflect on his mistakes and foster the group’s growth. However, after evaluating fan reactions, we recognized that this decision only exacerbated the confusion and distress.”

Seunghan was later spotted at a subway station, staring contemplatively at a support advertisement in his honor. His prolonged gaze at the advertisement highlighted his emotional state before he departed, appearing visibly upset.

One fan remarked,

“Knetizens truly do not deserve him.”

“It seems he was deeply affected after seeing the white funeral wreaths sent by K-briizes… He was visibly crushed by the sight of all the wreaths that fans had directed toward SM,”shared another fan .

“After witnessing those distressing funeral wreaths, Seunghan went to the subway station to find his support ad, filled with heartfelt letters from fans. He lingered there for some time before quietly leaving. This breaks my heart so much; he definitely needed some encouragement,”another supporter expressed .

“Previously, Chen was mistreated for marrying and having kids; now, this backlash arises from someone dating? What is wrong with the people in Korea???”a fan commented.

Many voiced their concerns about the disproportionate response Seunghan received, considering he is an adult. They also pointed out that Taeil, a previous member of NCT convicted of sexual assault, seemed to escape similar scrutiny from Korean netizens.

“It’s astonishing to think that people are normal citizens who spend their earnings on funeral wreaths for a K-pop idol simply because he dated someone and smoked as a teenager,”noted one fan .

“I’m not a RIIZE fan, but I sympathize with him. All this hatred directed at him is unwarranted, simply for having a girlfriend. Sending him death bouquets just to make a point? Some fans need to touch some grass,”expressed another user .

“Seeing this situation breaks my heart. I don’t see this kind of fury directed at Taeil, who, by the way, is a literal criminal??? Seunghan doesn’t merit this treatment, and neither does RIIZE deserve these extremist fans,”remarked another user on X .

Seunghan Writes a Touching Farewell Message to Fans Following Exit from RIIZE

As per the reports by The Korean Times, on the day he announced his exit from the group, the 21-year-old penned a heartfelt apology letter on social media, expressing remorse for the hurt he caused to his fellow members and their reputation. He indicated that after much thought, he chose to leave the group:

“I fully grasp the seriousness of this situation. I’ve dedicated significant time to reflecting on whether my actions were selfish or harmful to my members and the company. After careful consideration, I believe stepping down is the right choice.”

He reaffirmed his support for RIIZE, stating he would continue to cheer for them from the sidelines.

“It deeply saddens me to witness fans of RIIZE discord over my actions. I do not wish to contribute further to the confusion or distress. I hope that RIIZE continues to receive love, and I will wholeheartedly support them from a distance.”

In a show of unity, international fans organized support trucks to park outside SM Entertainment and erected ads championing Seunghan. Additionally, other K-pop fandoms, such as BTS ARMYs, Seventeen’s CARATs, Stray Kids’ STAYs, and GIDLE’s NEVIES, came together alongside BRIIZE, trending hashtags in his favor.

In related news, RIIZE announced their first anniversary, showcasing a new track titled “Combo”along with a repackaged version of their debut album, “RIIZING.”

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