TXT, the sensational K-pop group under HYBE, found themselves at the center of an unexpected airport fan frenzy on November 2.
TXT's experience, combined with candid reactions from one of their members, has brought the issue of idol safety and privacy at airports back into the spotlight.
TXT Yeonjun Appeals for Order, Courtesy at Airport Amid Chaotic Fan Gathering
Just like all the artists under HYBE's management, TXT's official Weverse account posted reminders for fans to adhere to proper etiquette and not gather at airports when idols are scheduled to depart for overseas engagements.
In photos and videos shared on social media, TXT members appeared visibly uncomfortable. Particularly noteworthy was a moment when Yeonjun was caught on camera saying, "How do they know?" as the members entered the airport.
yeonjun said “how do they know (txt’s flight schedule)?” 😀😀😀 pic.twitter.com/ZMxAtkMQ0O
— nabila🩷🫧 (@euphoriacyj_) November 2, 2023
This remark indicated the surprise and discomfort the group felt about fans being aware of their travel plans.
While some fans pointed fingers at Korean media outlets for disclosing the departure details, an issue that could have been managed by HYBE, others expressed their frustration with the fans for crowding around TXT.
Read on their comments below:
- “and look at hyuka’s hand gesture while glancing at yeonjun”
- “I feel like taehyun is pissed too, he is not waving nor smiling”
- “Seems like they were uncomfy”
- “He asked probably because there were a lot of moas waiting”
- “ugh why can’t they just leave them alone. and hyuka’s side eye. I feel so bad”
- “There were girls rushing to get through baggage & they kept looking towards TXT constantly...I always observe whenever TXT departs Korea as you can see them scrambling to get in line early to get on the same flight too which is disrespectful.”
- “Even hyuka is pissed lol can yall let them LIVE”
- “It’s always disheartening to see their privacy being invaded to this extent. I don't get the appeal of following idols to the airport and boxing them in. they’re clearly uncomfortable, maybe back off if you have even an ounce of respect for them? :(“
- “I heard there are sasaengs who work in the airport & they sell the info out…”
- “can they just back off I hate paps forever and always”
- “They are SO pissed off, kmedia and sasaengs deserve the worst”
The ongoing debate surrounding idol safety and privacy at airports has now gained even more momentum.
With an increasing number of K-pop stars voicing their concerns over such incidents, many netizens are now calling for concrete measures to address the issue.
Suggestions range from disallowing media outlets from sharing schedules to implementing private entrances for idols to ensure their safety and privacy.
The incident has once again ignited the debate on how to strike a balance between fan enthusiasm and respecting the personal space and safety of K-pop idols.
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Madison Cullen wrote this.
