As the weather warms Korea, universities across the country are holding their annual festivals, drawing in crowds of students, fans, and the general public.
However, amidst the excitement and anticipation, controversy has erupted at Hanyang University over alleged human rights restrictions imposed on those queuing for the festival.
The Day 2 of the festivities at the university saw a star-studded lineup, including popular groups such as CRAVITY, Choi Yena, and BSS.
Fans and outsiders flocked to the venue early in the morning, eager to secure coveted seats for the performances. However, what awaited them in line was not just anticipation but frustration and anger.
에리카 미쳤음? 대기줄 슨 사람 화장실 가지 말래 화장실 갔다 오면 퇴장이고 맨 뒤로 가야한대 ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ 생리하는 사람도 예외없다 ㅇㅈㄹ 함 장난하나
— 부좌 (@gwanggom) May 29, 2024
Reports emerged of staff members announcing stringent restrictions on basic human necessities, particularly regarding bathroom breaks. SEVENTEEN had requested the bathroom issue, and member Hoshi cleared things up with a post on Weverse.
호싱야 ㅠㅠ pic.twitter.com/9pI0OXyVzs
— SC7 (@SVT_SC7) May 29, 2024
Individuals queuing for the festival were allegedly informed that they would not be allowed to use the restroom after 7:30 AM, with dire consequences for those who dared to defy this rule.
한밤중에 줄을 섰어요!아침 6시쯤 줄 서 있는 사람한테 7:30이후에는 화장실 가지말라고 아니면다시 줄을 서야 했어요!지금10:30분에 화장실 간다고 하면 다시 줄을 서야되요!스태프들이 계속 화장실 가지 말라는 거 아니데요,화장실에 가면 안전에 문제가 생긴다고 계속 얘기하는데요#한양대ERICA축제
— SC7 (@SVT_SC7) May 29, 2024
Anyone leaving the line for a bathroom break would reportedly be relegated to the back of the queue, regardless of the circumstances.
The severity of these restrictions has sparked outrage among attendees, with many expressing disbelief and anger at what they perceive as a violation of their rights.
이게 모순 개소리지?😉
— SC7 (@SVT_SC7) May 29, 2024
여기 있는 줄 서 있는 팬들이 다 의견을 주는데 스태프들이 다 안 들어주더라고요. pic.twitter.com/0CeiiccJDp
One individual, who had queued since the late hours of the night, recounted their shock at being told they couldn't use the bathroom without facing consequences.
The controversy deepened as reports surfaced that these restrictions also applied to individuals menstruating, raising concerns about discrimination and disregard for basic bodily needs.
에리카 미쳤음? 대기줄 슨 사람 화장실 가지 말래 화장실 갔다 오면 퇴장이고 맨 뒤로 가야한대 ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ 생리하는 사람도 예외없다 ㅇㅈㄹ 함 장난하나
— 부좌 (@gwanggom) May 29, 2024
Critics argue that such policies not only infringe upon fundamental human rights but also demonstrate a lack of empathy and understanding from the university's administration.
Adding fuel to the fire was the revelation that tickets to the festival were being sold to outsiders for 10,000 KRW (~$7.33 USD), further incensing those who felt they were being mistreated despite paying for admission.
Netizens took to online platforms to express their frustration, with many questioning the university's motives and condemning its treatment of paying attendees.
In response to the backlash, Hanyang University has yet to issue a formal statement addressing the allegations.
However, as public outcry grows and criticism mounts, the university may be compelled to address the situation and reconsider its policies to ensure the fair and respectful treatment of all attendees.
진짜 너무하네요 본인들은 그게 가능하다고 생각하는건가😤
— 아르🍒 (@jjujjuyi) May 28, 2024
As the festival season continues to unfold, the controversy at Hanyang University serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding basic human rights and dignity, even in the midst of celebration and entertainment.
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Written by Cassidy Jones.