HYBE's new five-part docu-series spotlighting the K-pop group LE SSERAFIM has ignited a firestorm of criticism online, particularly a scene featuring the group's member Yunjin and HYBE founder Bang Si Hyuk.
The episode, aired on July 29, KST, captures an intimate conversation between Yunjin and Bang Si Hyuk.
In the segment, Yunjin opens up about her struggles with a creative rut and the weight of public criticism surrounding her debut teaser, where she expressed a desire to effect change within the idol industry.
Yunjin shared her feelings of increased responsibility and pressure to live up to her initial promises.
She revealed that public queries about her progress and perceived failures have begun to weigh heavily on her.
People say things like, 'So what have you changed?' 'How are you gonna make changes by yourself?' Things like that. At the beginning, I didn't really pay attention to it. But as time passes, I feel more responsible about what I said. So, I feel like I should do more and wonder if I'm doing enough.
- Yunjin
In response, Bang Si Hyuk advised Yunjin to concentrate on her songwriting without being overly concerned about public opinion or the company's image.
This advice, intended to encourage artistic freedom, has instead drawn ire from netizens who argue that it overlooks the importance of listening to public feedback.
READ MORE : LE SSERAFIM's Bold Move, Shutting Down Media Comments Amid Backlash - 'Enough Is Enough!
Online backlash has been swift and vocal.
Critics argue that Bang's advice is out of touch with industry realities and believe that HYBE should be more attuned to public sentiment.
Many see the documentary as an attempt by HYBE to manipulate public perception, using Yunjin's struggles as a shield.
HERE ARE SOME OF THE NETIZENS' COMMENTS:
"Bang Si Hyuk should care more about what the public thinks. I'm rooting for Yunjin nonetheless, though."
"Why shouldn't they pay attention to public opinion? His logic is strange."
"HYBE should actually be more mindful. I wish they'd at least be as competent as a regular company. To all the artists, hwaiting!"
"Si Hyuk, you SHOULD care."
"Their (lack of) skills might be a factor in all the criticism, but HYBE also seems to be a large part of it... The concepts and songs, as well as the way they always go for the underdog-rising vibe, are really off-putting."
"This is exactly why people say you need to be around good adults to guide you, but [LE SSERAFIM] is stuck there..."
"It's a documentary where you can see LE SSERAFIM members work hard and stand up for themselves despite their fears. I wish people wouldn't criticize it without even watching it."
KpopStarz owns this article.
Written by Cassidy Jones.
