Uaenas Furious at 'Influencer' Who Carelessly Touched IU
The world of K-pop is often characterized by its passionate fandoms and its fiercely protective fans, known for their unwavering support and devotion to their idols.
The latest incident involving singer-actress IU and influencer Molly Chiang, however, has sparked controversy and ignited the anger of IU's fans, collectively known as Uaenas.
An Uninvited Gesture Stirs Outrage
Uaenas Furious at 'Influencer' Who Crossed Boundaries and Carelessly Touched IU
On May 16, IU graced a fashion brand photocall event held in Seoul's Gyeongbokgung. Attention from various fashion magazines was rife, with the presence of the acclaimed singer making waves.
But what started as a routine event quickly turned sour as an unexpected incident sparked outrage amongst Uaenas.
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As IU was walking past with her security, Molly Chiang, a well-known influencer from Taiwan, reached out and grabbed IU's wrist.
This seemingly thoughtless action quickly fanned the flames of anger amongst IU's fans, who saw this as a blatant breach of the artist's personal space.
Public Reaction to the Uncomfortable Encounter
The viral video of this awkward interaction was met with a wave of criticism from netizens worldwide.
Observers noted that IU's discomfort was palpable, as she tried to subtly signal her bodyguard to intervene.
Molly Chiang's persistence, even after the uncomfortable exchange was halted, was deemed as disrespectful by many.
Critics pointed out IU's attempts to extricate her hand from Chiang's grasp, fueling their displeasure further. Some went as far as calling the act 'horrifying' and a violation of the artist's personal space.
Repeated Offences Amplify Fan Outrage
Allegations of similar behavior in the past have amplified the criticism aimed at Molly Chiang.
Earlier this year, she was reported to have intruded into Korean actor Jung Hae In's personal space at a Louis Vuitton event in Taiwan.
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Her incessant pursuit of celebrities, often crossing the boundaries of respectful fan behavior, has led netizens to demand a change in her "celeb-chasing habits."
Social Media Apologies Amid Fan Backlash
Facing escalating backlash, Chiang took to her social media to apologize for her behavior. She acknowledged the importance of seeking consent before engaging with celebrities, and apologized profusely for her thoughtless action.
"I am really sorry," she expressed in her statement. However, this apology did little to quell the raging Uaenas.
Some fans continued expressing their displeasure, going so far as to leave severe comments and falsely spreading a message that Chiang said she "disliked IU".
An Attempt to Rectify the Situation
In response to the escalating controversy, Chiang issued another statement, this time expressing her deep regret for extending her hand towards an unfamiliar celebrity.
She argued that her invitation to the event was a testament to her hard work, and that it was unfair to dismiss her entire career due to this incident.
Moreover, Chiang took a firm stand against the fabricated message spreading hatred towards IU, promising legal action against those spreading the false information.
Not only did she defend herself, but Chiang also demonstrated remorse by obtaining IU's agency contact through a friend and sent a translated apology, reaffirming her regret to IU and her fans.
Damage Control: Public Apology and Promises for Future Behavior
As the backlash mounted, Molly Chiang turned to her social media platforms on May 18 to address the controversy.
She expressed her regret for causing "agitated emotions and discomfort" during her interaction with IU.
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Chiang also acknowledged her transgressions, sharing that despite her desire to engage with celebrities to cater to her followers, she should have been more mindful of her actions.
In her statement, she stressed the significance of consent and declared that she never forces a photo opportunity if it's rejected by a manager or a celebrity.
Chiang promised to approach her interactions with public figures more sincerely and respectfully in the future, hoping to prevent a recurrence of such uncomfortable incidents.
