In the midst of the ongoing global boycott of brands, SEVENTEEN's Hoshi has caught the attention of fans for his recent actions, showcasing awareness amidst the controversies surrounding certain companies.
The worldwide boycott, largely prompted by concerns over the ongoing genocide in Palestine, has led to the avoidance of brands with direct or indirect ties to contentious issues.
One such brand facing scrutiny is the ubiquitous coffee giant, Starbucks, which has been a favorite among many idols in the K-Pop industry.
However, in light of recent events, more idols have been observed opting for alternative coffee options, signaling a growing consciousness within the entertainment community.
On June 5, Hoshi surprised fans with a live broadcast, engaging with his dedicated fanbase known as CARATs.
During the broadcast, as Hoshi took a sip of his coffee-likely provided by his manager either before or after a schedule-he paused to inspect the logo adorning the cup.
Despite the logo's green color reminiscent of some boycotted brands, keen observers noted that it appeared to belong to a local Korean coffee brand.
The moment, captured and shared on platforms like TikTok, quickly garnered praise from netizens.
Many applauded Hoshi for his subtle yet meaningful gesture, interpreting it as a sign of his awareness regarding the ongoing boycott.
In a time where idols face increased scrutiny for their actions, Hoshi's attentiveness to the brand of coffee he consumed resonated deeply with fans, reflecting a broader trend of idols becoming more socially conscious.
Furthermore, the incident coincided with announcements regarding Glastonbury Festival's efforts to raise funds for Gaza, a cause that SEVENTEEN is actively supporting through their participation in the event.
The juxtaposition of Hoshi's actions alongside the band's involvement in philanthropic endeavors underscored the growing role of K-Pop artists in social advocacy.
While some expressed a desire for idols to speak out more directly on such issues, the complexities and constraints within the K-Pop industry make it difficult to gauge the extent to which artists can publicly address political matters.
Nevertheless, moments like Hoshi's coffee choice serve as subtle reminders of the broader awareness and conscientiousness within the industry, sparking conversations about the responsibilities and limitations faced by idols in navigating sensitive topics.
KpopStarz owns this article
Written by Cassidy Jones