Fanning the flames of controversy, a recent Weverse Magazine article has sparked heated reactions among the BTS Army, and the broader K-pop fandom, as it is believed to throw subtle punches, or "shade," at BTS members Jimin and Suga.
The article made a comparison of the two artists' individual successes, which ARMYs interpreted as a blatant slight against the achievements of these cherished Korean pop stars.
How the Controversy Sparked
The controversy sparked with the Weverse article, titled "Morgan Wallen is the most wanted man in music," that seemed to undermine the K-pop artists' accomplishments while glorifying those of Wallen, a country music star.
The article, fans said, unceremoniously contrasted the dominance of Wallen's album "One Thing at a Time" with the apparent struggle of K-pop albums to clinch the top spot.
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This perceived slight has left fans feeling that their idols' achievements were belittled.
ARMYs React: Dismay, Disappointment, Anger
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The backlash to the Weverse article was swift and widespread, with ARMYs expressing their disapproval across social media platforms. They highlighted the considerable contribution of BTS members, particularly Jimin and Suga, to the rise in HYBE's stock price.
Fans took umbrage at the seemingly dismissive description of Jimin's debut track "Like Crazy" — a Billboard's HOT 100 topper — and Suga's booming solo world tour as "partial success."
One of the aggravated fans took to social media to express their discontent, asserting:
"HYBE's lack of professional conduct is deeply concerning.
To cast shadows over their own artists is not only counterproductive, but it is also exceedingly unprofessional."
Furthermore, the claim that Morgan Wallen is a victim of cancel culture, despite his history of uttering racial slurs and flouting COVID protocols, left fans even more infuriated.
A fan lamented:
"By painting Wallen as an innocent target, you are sending a disconcerting message to all fans, especially those of color, who support HYBE-affiliated groups."
Questioning HYBE's Priorities
Another sore point for fans was the perceived neglect of the pivotal roles played by BTS' Suga and Jimin in HYBE's success.
In their opinion, the artists' hard-earned accomplishments were downplayed, while their own company unabashedly glorified a controversial western musician.
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In reaction to this, one vocal critic stated:
"It's staggering to witness a platform associated with HYBE dishonor the very artists who have brought the company to its current stature. It feels like a slap in the face to every loyal fan."
Discrimination & the Music Industry
The contentious Weverse article has certainly ignited a tempest in a teapot. It raises probing questions about inherent biases in the music industry and the pressures that Asian artists face in their journey to global recognition.
