SM Entertainment Receives Backflash for Not Providing Enough Chairs During Fan Signing: ‘Wow Such Cheapskates’

In the vibrant and ever-evolving world of K-Pop, fan sign events serve as cherished moments where devoted fans can connect with their favorite idols on a more intimate level. However, recent revelations surrounding SM Entertainment's fan sign events have stirred up a storm of controversy within the fandom community.

Traditionally, fan sign events involve fans sitting face-to-face with their beloved artists, exchanging words, smiles, and sometimes even gifts. Yet, according to an online post that gained significant traction, SM Entertainment's approach to these events deviates from the norm in a surprising manner.

Rather than providing chairs for fans, as is customary in most fan sign events, SM Entertainment reportedly opts for a standing-only arrangement.

This unorthodox setup has left many fans perplexed and disheartened, as they navigate the challenges of interacting with their idols while remaining on their feet.

One fan shared their bewildering experience, expressing disbelief at the absence of chairs and the apparent haste to move fans along during the event.

"They don't give you a chair so you have to stand during the fan sign, I guess they really don't want you to have extra time with a member..."

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The revelation sparked a flurry of reactions from netizens, with many expressing surprise and disappointment at SM Entertainment's approach.

They don't give you a chair so you have to stand during the fan sign. For these events, if the person in front isn't done, you can talk with the member in front of you until they are finished. But, with SM, I guess they really don't want you to have extra time with a member."

Some questioned the rationale behind denying fans the opportunity to sit and engage with their idols comfortably, particularly considering the financial investment fans make to attend such events.

One netizen recounted a distressing experience at an SM fan sign event, where the absence of a chair led to confusion and discomfort.

"During my first fan sign event, the manager told me to go to the next member."

Another one said:

"I didn't know what to do so I went back and forth frantically when another member said that if I stood like that I would be causing harm to the fan behind me. That's when my mental state broke down."

The contentious nature of SM Entertainment's fan sign events has reignited discussions about the treatment of fans within the industry and the importance of prioritizing their experiences.

Some more comments from K-pop fans:

• "Wow...they don't even let them do that, even with how much money they've spent. Sitting in front of them for a few minutes doesn't even take long."
• "This is how they are treated after spending tons of money."
• "First time seeing them making them stand in a line. They should just let them talk to them while they wait."
• "If they spent that money elsewhere, they would have been at least VIP."
• "Wow such cheapskates."

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Written by Cassidy Jones.