SEVENTEEN's Special Day Ruined? HYBE's Controversial Decision Sets Internet Ablaze

Netizens are expressing their anger and disappointment at HYBE's recent announcement regarding SEVENTEEN's upcoming 9th anniversary merchandise.

The popular K-pop group, which debuted in 2015, has garnered a massive following known as CARATs, who are known for their dedication and support for the group.

SEVENTEEN's anniversary merchandise has traditionally been highly anticipated by fans, featuring beautiful and meaningful designs that reflect the group's identity and journey.However, this year's teasers from HYBE have left many CARATs feeling underwhelmed and frustrated.

The merchandise for the anniversary includes necklaces paired with charms, with each charm representing a different member of SEVENTEEN. While some designs, like S.Coups' cherry and Woozi's music note, align with the members' characteristics, others have sparked controversy.

Many netizens have criticized the designs as "cheap" and "uncreative," expressing concerns that they lack the depth and connection to SEVENTEEN's identity that fans have come to expect. Furthermore, some designs, such as Vernon's UFO and Mingyu's french fries, have been singled out as particularly problematic.

The choice of a french fries charm for Mingyu has ignited outrage among fans. Mingyu has previously expressed discomfort with jokes about potatoes, making this design choice tone-deaf and insensitive to his feelings. Netizens argue that HYBE should have consulted the members and fans to create more meaningful and respectful designs.

CARATs feel that HYBE's approach to the anniversary merchandise reflects a disconnect from SEVENTEEN's image and identity. Many believe that the designs are merely a cash grab, lacking the thoughtfulness and creativity that fans deserve.

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Written by Cassidy Jones.