ATEEZ's Latest Collab With 'Zionist' Has ATINYs Disappointed: 'We Really Can't Have Anything Nice'

In a music industry teeming with collaborations and remixes, K-pop sensation ATEEZ recently found themselves at the center of a storm following their latest release, "WORK. Pt.2."

The remix, featuring Dutch DJ Don Diablo, was poised to be a thrilling follow-up to their comeback album, "GOLDEN HOUR : Part.1" and its titular track, "WORK."

However, excitement quickly turned to controversy as fervent fans, known as ATINYs, voiced their discontent over Don Diablo's alleged ties to Zionism.

The DJ's past performance in Tel Aviv, Israel, and his expressions of fondness for the city ignited a firestorm of criticism among those who support Palestinian rights.

The timing of the backlash couldn't be more charged, with tensions in the region already running high.

Reports of escalating violence and casualties in the Gaza Strip have brought renewed attention to the longstanding Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

According to recent figures, the death toll in Gaza has surpassed 36,000, with over 80,000 Palestinians suffering injuries or displacement.

READ MORE: ATEEZ San Shocks ATINYs With Amount Of Unread Messages In Phone - But Fans Are Concerned For THIS Reason

Zionism, a political ideology advocating for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine, has been a lightning rod for controversy.

Critics argue that Israel's policies towards Palestinians constitute apartheid, a charge vehemently denied by Israel and its allies.

Nevertheless, prominent voices in the international community, including human rights organizations, have leveled accusations of apartheid against Israel.

In response to Don Diablo's association with Zionism, a grassroots movement among ATINYs has emerged, calling for a boycott of the collaboration.

Social media platforms have been inundated with hashtags such as #KQDivestFromZionism, #kpop4palestine, and #goldenhourforpalestine, reflecting a groundswell of support for Palestinian rights within the fandom.

One ATINY, @dulcenocandy, expressed disappointment with the collaboration, stating, "With Ateez's messaging being about resistance and rising against oppression, this collaboration is disappointing to say the least."

The sentiment underscores the clash between artistic expression and political beliefs that often arises in the realm of entertainment.

As ATEEZ navigates the fallout from their collaboration with Don Diablo, the controversy serves as a reminder of the complexities inherent in the global reach of K-pop and the responsibilities that come with wielding such influence.

KpopStarz owns this article.
Written by Cassidy Jones.