A news outlet is facing massive criticism for their coverage of BTS Jimin's solo achievements after the release of his album "FACE."
ARMYs accused the American outlet of "dissing" and "shading" the other BTS members in their article, which many believe fosters a rivalry between them.
BTS Jimin's Solo Success & News Outlet's Coverage
BTS Jimin's solo album "FACE" debuted at the Billboard 200 at No. 2 with 164,000 equivalent album units sold. Among the tracks in the album, "Like Crazy," immediately topped the charts at No. 1.
The lead dancer consequently set the record for the highest single-week total of the year, making Jimin the first South Korean solo artist to top the Hot 100 in nearly 65 years.
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In response to the article, ARMYs rallied to defend both Jimin and the other group members. They defended the group, saying that celebrating one member's success should not come at the expense of the others because all contributed significantly to the group's overall achievements.
This united front showcases the loyalty and dedication of the BTS fandom, which has played a significant role in the group's global success.
The Power of Responsible Journalism in the Era of Fandom
The controversy surrounding the article seemingly underscores the power of responsible journalism, particularly when covering popular artists with dedicated fanbases.
As seen with the backlash against the coverage of Jimin's solo success, fans are quick to react and defend their favorite artists against perceived injustices or misrepresentations.
In this era of instant communication and social media activism, it is more important than ever for journalists to approach their subjects with care and consideration to avoid stirring up controversy and to maintain the integrity of their reporting.