In the latest episode of Single's Inferno 3, host and influencer Dex (Kim Jin Young) found himself at the center of a heated discussion following his remarks to ITZY's Yeji.
Known for his growing popularity since his participation in Single's Inferno 2, Dex has become a prominent figure with his own show, where celebrities engage in light-hearted conversations on various topics.
Banter Takes a Controversial Turn
The episode featuring ITZY's Yeji showcased the usual banter between the two stars, reinforcing the show's playful atmosphere.
However, a particular exchange about snacks drew mixed reactions from fans. Yeji shared her penchant for fixating on certain snacks for extended periods, a revelation that prompted Dex to playfully tease her about her approach to relationships.
I'm not sure if it's because all of my tastes are the same or if it's just that if I like something, I just keep doing that. If lengthy, it lasts for three months. A favorite snack of mine lasts for three months.
-ITZY Yeji
Inappropriate or Aligned with the Show's Concept?
As per the show's flirty theme centered around dating and relationships, Dex's comment was delivered in line with the program's concept.
Despite Yeji's laughter and apparent ease with the remark, not all fans were convinced. On social media, one fan expressed mixed feelings, suggesting that even within the context of the show, such remarks might be deemed inappropriate.
Social Media Divided
The controversy spilled onto social media, with fans expressing differing views. Some defended Dex, asserting that the nature of the show, characterized as "flirty," implied a certain level of playful banter. According to this perspective, Yeji, as a participant, would have expected and accepted such comments.
nah he was sick for this pic.twitter.com/dlESKV2beD
— 🐈⚡️Back in the days 미침에 미치지 못했던 me (@queerdomrv) January 11, 2024
Conversely, others argued that the shift from discussing snacks to relationships felt unnecessary. Given the heightened scrutiny faced by female idols, many opined that even if Yeji laughed off the comment, it was an inappropriate change of subject.
Navigating a Risky Terrain
While Dex's intentions may not have been negative, the incident highlights the delicate nature of discussing dating and relationships with female idols.
its crazy to see the amount of women incels in KPOP fandoms, it's actually astonishing
— 友人(chingu) (@ChinguBig) January 12, 2024
dude's known from a dating show, that's the whole premise. He flirts with people on the show
What if Yeji actually likes the guy? lmao
"oh no she just laughs at everything" virgins projecting https://t.co/Zl9fIP9rkF
Look i am usually an itzy defender bc they get slander for no reason, HOWEVER the whole point of the show is dating/flirting that’s probably why he said that😭 plus she just laughed https://t.co/NnueON38VB
— Waa ★⁵ 🇵🇸 (@inniesboyfriend) January 12, 2024
I know damn well girls and boys talk to each other like this lol
— I am NOT vice president harris (@thenewclsssix) January 11, 2024
isnt this like the concept of the show? watch other ep with other guest he asked the same about relationship…since he got popular on dating reality show so its like his concept https://t.co/MzdzfBOrW6
— yeji binnie🖤 (@yeji_bestiee) January 12, 2024
Comments, even when aligned with the show's concept, can be perceived as abrupt and inappropriate, adding fuel to an ongoing debate within the fan community.
"yeji laughed..." women, specially those in the industry, tend to laugh to deflect the situation bc if they react even a lil bit negatively they are the ones who gonna get dogpilled
— 🍒 (@koinoufocatcher) January 11, 2024
"IT WASS A JOKEEE" crowd would have been over the media. https://t.co/ZKeHOlASrM
how did we go from snacks to boyfriends https://t.co/RZjpqZAoF3 pic.twitter.com/tVWtwJMuTh
— chaeryeong lover 🫶 (@chaerykooo) January 11, 2024
i know yeji laughed but y’all also laugh when uncomfortable i just find this a little odd but 😭 https://t.co/RYTNFoODQH
— cas (@itzakgae) January 11, 2024
As Single's Inferno 3 continues to captivate audiences, the controversy surrounding Dex's remarks to Yeji remains a topic of discussion, emphasizing the challenges of treading the fine line between entertainment and sensitivity.
Watch the full video below:
For more K-Pop news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KpopStarz.
KpopStarz owns this article.
Written by Cassidy Jones.