TXT's (Tomorrow X Together) ongoing North American tour has been a whirlwind of excitement for fans, offering them precious moments with the boys during send-offs.
The way yeonjun greeted the lil kid during send off this is so cute 🥹
— yawnzone 🫧 (@allaboutyeonjun) May 28, 2024
🦊: hi little one
🤍: hi~ pic.twitter.com/3rhrHUyMAB
However, amidst the sea of heartwarming interactions, one awkward encounter left both fans and Yeonjun, a member of TXT, taken aback.
During one of the send-off sessions, a fan approached Yeonjun with a seemingly innocent question that quickly turned heads.
In the limited time fans have to interact with the members, this particular fan decided to ask Yeonjun a question that had been circulating on social media, originating from the lyrics of Tinashe's "Nasty" and popularized by teenagers online:
"Are you going to match my freak?"
Yeonjun's smile faded quickly as he processed the unexpected inquiry, and according to reports, he resorted to singing randomly to diffuse the awkwardness of the moment.
him ignoring them asking him to match their freak and just singing that jason mraz song i’m on the floorhttps://t.co/xnjCJUcAbx
— MCMUFFIN #2 (@jiuzballz) May 27, 2024
The encounter was captured by fans and swiftly circulated online, drawing mixed reactions from the TXT fanbase, known as MOAs.
While some found humor in the situation, labeling it as a "cringey" and "embarrassing" moment, others were quick to defend Yeonjun and express their discomfort with the fan's choice of words.
saying this to his face is CRAZYYYYY are you not embarrassed ?? pic.twitter.com/AJtmOHESDu
— ale ✶༊ (@liluzigyu) May 28, 2024
and thank god for that because it gave me the ick
— z☆ (@bowkillz) May 27, 2024
cause why would u say that
— MCMUFFIN #2 (@jiuzballz) May 27, 2024
i was next to those people they told beomgyu he was a big baby too????
— zia (@soobwt) May 27, 2024
lowkey this needs to be the last time they do send off. the second hand embarrassment i’ve been getting all tour is so unbearable https://t.co/5aJkJQPc93
— ambi⁷𖧵 (@ambis0nic) May 27, 2024
Some of you need to understand boundaries cause you’ve gotta wayyyy too comfortable asking incredibly weird things https://t.co/TbBUyh9EMw
— ☀️shan♡ (@hobierthanthou) May 27, 2024
see that’s just brain rot. how are u gonna ask him that irl this is NOT funny 😭😭😭😭 https://t.co/Mf1ViGgy4h
— xo, kiki ✮ 🐶 (@jim1nsz) May 27, 2024
Many pointed out that such phrases and memes might not be familiar or appropriate in South Korean culture, highlighting the cultural divide that exists even within a global fandom.
It's worth noting that interactions between K-pop idols and fans, especially during events like send-offs, are typically brief and tightly scheduled, leaving little room for extensive conversations.
Therefore, the choice of words becomes crucial in making these fleeting moments memorable for both parties involved.
ou i wouldve buried myself alive in my backyard as soon as i got home if that was me
— azure (@hyuxkiz) May 27, 2024
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural sensitivity and awareness, especially in the context of fan interactions with idols from different backgrounds.
why were the fans in houston so weird😭 i swear i keep seeing weird interaction videos
— kathy (@_hu3ning_) May 27, 2024
While the intention behind the fan's question may have been harmless or even playful, its reception underscores the need for fans to be mindful of cultural nuances and respectful boundaries.
They asked yeonjun to match their freak and told beomgyu he was a big baby…….like what, you couldn’t think of anything better to say to them😭
— xo, kz🪐✨ (@pxge_kz) May 27, 2024
As TXT continues their tour across North America, fans are hopeful that future interactions will be filled with more joyous moments and fewer uncomfortable encounters.
Despite the hiccup, MOAs remain dedicated to supporting the group and cherishing the special connections they share with each member, both on and off stage.
In the ever-evolving landscape of fan culture and social media trends, incidents like these serve as valuable lessons for fans and idols alike, highlighting the importance of mutual respect and understanding in fostering a healthy and positive fan-idol relationship.
KpopStarz owns this article.
Written by Cassidy Jones.