Will SM Entertainment ever kick Irene out of Red Velvet? In an online community, internet users and fans discussed reasons the agency can't afford to lose the female idol. Keep on reading for all the details.

Irene Is Most Popular Red Velvet Member? K-Netz Discuss SM Can't 'Let Her Go' Due to Idol's Popularity

On the online community Nate Pann, a post titled, "Reason SM Entertainment can't abandon Red Velvet Irene' sparked discussion among fans and netizens.

According to the original author, Irene is the "pillar" of Red Velvet in contributing to its fandom's strength.

The writer said:

"When it comes to popularity and public recognition, Irene is the best "pillar" of idol creating a strong fandom.

After her (power abuse/attitude) scandal, the number of her light fans decreased, but her hardcore fans became stronger.

Irene's goods sold out more than group goods. If you look at China, Irene is still big after BLACKPINK, so SM Entertainment can't throw away Irene because of how dependent the agency is on China."

ALSO READ: Red Velvet Irene's Reality Show Draws Mixed Reactions– Here's Why

In the article, the author also stated that due to Irene's fandom purchasing power and influence, SM Entertainment is trying to salvage her image through the idol's appearance at events and reality shows.

As soon as the post was posted, it amassed 165.2k views as of August 5 and received various responses from readers.

While some agreed with the post, many internet users disagreed that SM is only keeping Irene due to her popularity.

• "Even if Irene is the least popular member, SM Entertainment won't kick her."
• "SM really don't kick controversial members."
• "Are you saying Red Velvet is nothing without Irene? Joy's pollen part went viral just by doing 'Feel My Rhythm,' and there's also Wendy, Seulgi, and Yeri, so the image is okay. Who's doing what?"
• "Unless they decided to leave themselves, SM Entertainment almost don't kick out artists."

What are your thoughts on this?

Irene Gains Mixed Reactions Following Solo Reality Show 'Irene's Work & Holiday'

On August 4, Red Velvet Irene's new reality program "Irene's Work & Holiday" had its premiere on the streaming platform Seezn.

Contrary to the rumors that the female idol has "celebrity disease" and is abusing her power against staff, Irene showed a warm and humble relationship with staff from Episode 1.

Although Irene tried to show her natural side with her staff behind the stage, there is still criticism over the authenticity of her personality. Earlier, she was embroiled in another power abuse controversy after letting her staff carry all her luggage at Bali airport.

In a response, Reporter Lee Jin Ho revealed the "truth" about the issue and said:

"It is impossible to judge with just one photo."

In contrast to how the photo was interpreted, the reporter mentioned that there were many actions done by Irene that were closer to a good story. One scenario was how the idol gave her signs to local fans even if her manager stopped her.

He also explained:

"The reality shooting began right after she arrived at the airport. It was difficult for Irene to pull the carrier herself because she was in the process of filming."

Lee Jin Ho added:

"After Irene's power abuse controversy, the public's view of her is not good, but Irene continues to highlight how she is good to the staff, perhaps because she is conscious of it."

READ MORE: Power Abuse? Reporter Shares Truth on Red Velvet Irene's Latest Controversy

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Written by Eunice Dawson