Taeyang sat down for an interview with CNN, which aired on Dec. 31. At the time, the icon talked about the powerful influence and status of BIGBANG, which has been reigning for about two decades since their 2006 debut.
"Thankfully, we were able to open doors to global markets for many K-pop bands that came after us, and they can perform on world stages," said Taeyang, when the host asked about his feelings about BIGBANG becoming one of the pioneers in making K-pop a global sensation.
"I wouldn't say we presented that, but it feels great that our efforts have played a part in that."
Unfortunately, Taeyang's statement garnered hateful comments from BTS' fans, ARMYs.
#TAEYANG in #CNN
— BigBang M.VIP Family (@BigBangMVIPFami) January 2, 2025
[Full Intro & Interview]
(Let's wait for the 20th anniversary fellow VIPs 🥹💛
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Shared from yb_vip@instagram pic.twitter.com/bHeH5pF4Xl
On Instagram, his posts were spammed with unrelated comments from the fandom.
"If it weren't for BTS your faves would have just been stuck in Korea. Be thankful to BTS kiddos," one fan commented.
Others repeatedly commented "BTS paved the way" under the BIGBANG member's posts.
BTS fans spamming Taeyang IG with hateful comments because Taeyang said he's glad he was a part of many artists who open the doors for many others.
— KLIFE (@8KLIFE) January 3, 2025
Through years Armys have spammed all BIGBANG accounts with hateful comments when BIGBANG never mentioned them or their fav. pic.twitter.com/INKYOpAEaG
As the incident reached VIPs' (BIGBANG fans) attention, they immediately jumped to defend the "Eyes, Nose, Lips" singer by leaving positive comments on his SNS.
"BIGBANG opened the door," countered fans.
Other K-pop fandoms also left messages of support and recognized BIGBANG's contribution.
"EXO-Ls supporting and protecting you, too."
"I'm Carat but I support BIGBANG."
RELATED ARTICLE: Taeyang's Past Interview Resurfaces — How Did Idol Maintain 'Controversy-Free' Image?
