Eunseok, a new member of SM Entertainment's pre-debut team SM Rookies, also known as SR22B, has been embroiled in controversy after his latest interview. What happened?
SM Rookies Eunseok Reveals He Wants To Become an Actor
SR22B (Twitter)
On July 2, WWD Korea released an interview with SM Rookies members Seunghan, Eunseok, and Shohei. In the interview with Eunseok, the prospective member of NCT, revealed his aspiration to become an idol.
The interviewer asked:
"Since when did you want to become an idol?"
Eunseok honestly responded:
"In fact, I was not very interested in idols. As I entered the company by chance, I gradually became interested and dreamed (to become one). I want to be like Max Changmin of TVXQ."
During the talk, Eunseok revealed he aspires to become an actor, on top of being an idol. He particularly revealed this when he hinted at his daily life as an SM trainee.
"There are various classes that focus on dance, rap, vocals, vocalization, acting, and language. But among them, I am really interested in acting. I've been taking acting lessons since I joined SM."
He strengthened his determination to become an actor when he added:
"(1 year from now) I think I will be doing a photo shoot for WWD Korea again while recalling this moment. (10 years from now) I think I will be an actor by then."
SR22B Eunseok Criticized for Alleged Celebrity Disease— Here's Why
Eunseok (Twitter)
As soon as the interview circulated on social media platforms, some raised their brows at his attitude.
"It seems like you're coming into the group just to use it as a stepping stone to acting."
"I'm embarrassed to have a rookie interview that hasn't even debuted."
"It's the first time a trainee has never had a first music show win resolution."
People questioned his desire to "hit two birds with one stone" even when his debut is still not official. Others are also skeptical to support him when he's not even 100% dedicated to becoming an idol despite others who sacrificed everything just to debut.
As the criticism intensified, people accused Eunseok of having the "celebrity disease." In context, this term is used to describe a celebrity who thinks they are superior due to their current status; an idol who becomes haughty after experiencing fame and wealth.
"It seems like he caught the 'celebrity disease' even before his debut, but it all thanks to his agency's backing that they were able to have a photoshoot, interview."
"NCTzens fandom is scary. If he continues with thank kind of attitude, he'll never survive."
Eunseok (Twitter)
On the other hand, there were some who defended him and said:
"I don't think it's weird when I read the entire interview."
"Can't you think like that?"
"If you're young, you can say so."
SM Rookies is a kind of pre-debut team that experiences entertainment activities such as performances and broadcasting appearances first. They make a formal debut through group formation.
The SR22B member introduced is 21 years old this year and is reportedly known for his sweet voice and visuals.
