Behind-the-Scenes Drama
The controversy erupted following the release of Taeyong's second mini-album, "TAP," featuring the eponymous title track. Fans eagerly awaited glimpses into the making of the album, witnessing Taeyong's dedication and passion throughout the creative process.
When it came to planning the music video, Taeyong expressed his desire for a scene with a spacious feel. However, the director's response left many fans shocked.
He explained that achieving this vision would require Taeyong to film alone or with just one other person, without the presence of his manager or stylist.
Netizens' Reactions
This revelation didn't sit well with many netizens, who viewed it as a form of mistreatment towards the idol, especially during his solo promotions.
The director's straightforwardness, coupled with Taeyong's apparent acceptance of the conditions, ignited a storm of criticism across social media platforms.
taeyong bringing a whole self made album+ a fully formed choreo to the table and they’re telling him they can’t send a camera & a mua with him to a mv site.. you cheap bitch what even are u there for @SMTOWNGLOBAL he even got his own clothes on for the mv are u not embarrassed!?! pic.twitter.com/bGNvnycLy7
— _ (@127leelines) March 4, 2024
taeyong using his own clothes for the tap album and tyongf is the one promoting the album, SM entertainment is really useless pic.twitter.com/JU8T27rg29
— del ♡ (@taeyyoxo) February 29, 2024
but somehow I like the way Taeyong answered. It proves that Taeyong can do anything by himself without help of those agenshit. Let's move to a new agency Taeyong, one that can fully support your talents or start making your own since you already have your team https://t.co/DSiISFI7qg pic.twitter.com/6sNnt5oSkN
— ɐıɹʇıɟ ⪩ෆ⪨ (@breezypeachy) March 5, 2024
I think its crazy that SM even posts things like this, like fully edited videos of them mistreating taeyong and then proceeds to think that its still okay. Like theres no moral compass in that company when it comes to their staff whatsoever. https://t.co/vNhxcTE6m1
— 𝕪𝕒𝕟𝕒 𝕓𝕒𝕟𝕒𝕟𝕒 💛📌 (@shiyanasays) March 4, 2024
While some fans speculated that the limitations could be due to filming locations, others saw it as a symptom of a larger issue within SM Entertainment's handling of Taeyong's career. The discussion has intensified with the backdrop of news regarding contract renewals within the agency, particularly concerning fellow group SHINee.
"TAEYONG will reportedly not renew his contract with SM Entertainment" next please
— del ♡ (@taeyyoxo) March 5, 2024
Lack of Support?
The prevailing sentiment among fans is one of disappointment, believing that Taeyong did not receive the level of support and promotion commensurate with the hard work he invested in his album.
The outcry reflects a broader conversation within the K-pop industry about artist treatment and the responsibilities of entertainment companies towards their talents.
As the discussions continue to unfold online, the controversy surrounding Taeyong's music video planning has become a focal point for those advocating for fairer treatment of idols within the industry.
You can watch the full conversation here:
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Written by Cassidy Jones.