On Sunday, Feb. 14, Starship Entertainment dropped the fir set of concept photos for MONSTA X member I.M's solo debut. One detail from his shirt, however, caused a major backlash from Muslim fans. Keep reading to learn more.
Why are Muslim Fans Upset?
At 8:00 p.m. KST on Feb. 14, Starship Entertainment revealed the first set of concept photos for rapper I."m upcoming debut solo mini digital album, "Duality." While the photos initially received a positive reaction, quick-eyed fans soon noticed that in the third concept photo, I.M was seen wearing a shirt that reads, "Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim," or, in Arabic, reads "بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم."
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This phrase translates to, "In the name of Allah, The Most Gracious and the Most Merciful." It is a sacred phrase recited by Muslims every day before reciting the Quran and is often said during their prayers. Due to how sacred and important the phrase is, it is seen as insensitive and ignorant to wear it in clothing.
After seeing the offensive clothing, fans have been trying to track down where the shirt is being sold. Since no store has been found carrying the item, it is speculated that the shirt was designed in-house, specifically for the concept photo. Many have raised their voices, saying that they hope the shirt is not seen in his debut music video.
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What is the Reaction Concerning the Shirt?
Most of the blame is being put on Starship Entertainment, as they are the ones in charge of the concept and styling of the artist. Some fans are demanding that the company take down the concept photo so as not to ruin I.M's solo debut. Others also demand a formal apology and statement concerning the matter, as this is not something that should be taken lightly.
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However, some people are also putting the blame on I.M. People are saying that, as the artist in question and the one who will ultimately be seen with the shirt on, he should have done his due diligence to research what the shirt says.
As K-pop continues to get more global, fans are saying that both idols and companies should be properly educated about other country's races and religions to avoid such harmful incidents. K-pop is huge in many Islamic countries, such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Morocco, and Algeria. If companies and idols want to maintain their fandoms in the Muslim-dominated countries, they need to learn about what is appropriate to do and what is not.
As of press time, neither Starship Entertainment nor I.M has released a statement on the matter.
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Written by Alexa Lewis
