On the 2nd of March, fellow VIXX members of Hongbin, Leo and Ravi, expressed their apology messages to the fans and netizens following the controversy their co-member is facing after being falsely accused of giving derogatory remarks about other Korean idol groups.
On the personal Instagram account of Ravi, he uploaded a photo of his album, with a caption thanking fans and his supporters for making good memories during the promotion of his first album.
"I've always worked diligently because I've always dreamed of showing you that kind of stage in person, and I am hoping that you've seen it during the music shows. I still wanted to continue creating good memories with all of you though the situation did not allow it, and it makes me sentimental."
Nevertheless, he promised to meet his fans more in the future. Also, though it is not direct, he apologizes to everyone in light of Hongbin's issue and expressed his wish as he wrote,
"We must not destroy someone's passion and tear that easily."
Also, VIXX Leo expressed his apology as well through his Twitter account, saying, "Dream sweet dreams without a load in your heart. My muses, I am sorry."
Prior to this, the agency of the K-pop band, Jellyfish Entertainment, had given their official apology statement, as well as the member who was involved, Hongbin, also reflected and sincerely apologized through his SNS account, live broadcast and an official letter.
"Hello. This is Lee Hongbin. I sincerely apologize to the artists and their fans who were hurt by my misbehaviors during the last live private broadcast. We also apologize for any concern for VIXX members and fans."
"Again, I am sorry for everyone who was disappointed. I will be careful in the future and will deeply reflect. I am really sorry."
The controversy sparked when Hongbin celebrated his anniversary on the TWITCH channel on t last 29th of February, which is a platform for live broadcasts and streaming.
Hongbin, together with his fans, had the live broadcast and music party, while the member is having a drink. It was a happy event; however, his comments involving other K-pop bands backlashed to him, making netizens angry.
His statements out of being drunk produced several mistranslations and out of the context articles, making the fire grew bigger.
Netizens misunderstood Hongbin disliking SHINee after making a comment about a weird mix of the group's song, "Everybody." Hongbin, though, never meant it that way, making a statement about the distorted song rather than the group.
Also, several mistranslations about his statement about the INFINITE, EXO, and Red Velvet were circulating online, which is causing more ruckus.
On the other hand, fandoms of the involved K-pop groups, including Shawols, Inspirit, EXO-ls, and ReVeluvs together with Starlights, are sending Hongbin encouragement messages, comforting him regarding the controversy and assuring him that they will still support the idol throughout the controversy.
