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K-Pop Controversies of 2024: A Turbulent Year for the Industry
Last Updated: December 20, 2024, 22:20 IST
A Year Marked by Scandals and Power Struggles in K-Pop
The K-pop industry, known for its vibrant music and captivating performances, found itself in the throes of serious controversies in 2024. While the genre has enjoyed global success since the late 2010s, this year’s events shone a light on the tough realities lying beneath the surface. Legal disputes, accusations of misconduct, and high-profile exits plagued the community, leaving fans and observers to grapple with a troubling narrative far removed from the glitzy image of K-pop.
Here’s a closer look at some of the most significant controversies that captured the attention of K-pop enthusiasts this past year.
Moon Tae-il’s Exit Amid Allegations
Moon Tae-il, a former member of the popular boy group NCT, shocked fans with his sudden departure from the group in August 2024. At 30 years old, Taeil was confronted with serious allegations of aggravated quasi-rape related to an incident involving a foreign national, which reportedly took place while the individual was unconscious. The accusations sent ripples through the community, leading to SM Entertainment’s decisive action in severing ties with him and confirming his collaboration with authorities as investigations unfolded.
This incident raised questions about safety and accountability in the industry, marking a significant moment in K-pop following Taeil’s debut in 2016.
Feud Between HYBE and ADOR
The clash between HYBE and its subsidiary ADOR, led by Min Hee-jin, turned into a highly publicized feud. ADOR, the label behind the successful girl group NewJeans, found itself embroiled in a bitter dispute with its parent company over allegations of attempted corporate takeovers and concept infringement. The situation escalated when Min Hee-jin voiced accusations that HYBE and Belift Lab had appropriated NewJeans’ artistic concepts for their own projects.
The conflict resulted in lawsuits, significant public fallout, and ultimately, Min’s resignation as CEO in August. This turmoil not only sparked fan outrage but also generated discussions about the dynamics of power and creativity within the industry.
BTS’ Suga Faces DUI Scandal
The global phenomenon BTS also faced controversy in 2024, particularly with member Suga who was arrested in August for DUI after riding an electric scooter while intoxicated. The incident drew substantial backlash and even protests calling for his removal from the group. Despite his guilty plea and subsequent fine, Suga received an outpouring of support from fans and fellow celebrities alike, highlighting the intense scrutiny that K-pop idols endure.
This scandal brought to light the ongoing conversation surrounding idol culture and the pressures faced by artists in the limelight.
Seungkwan’s Industry Critique
In a bold move, Seungkwan from Seventeen took to social media to voice concerns about the industry’s toxic practices. His comments resonated with issues previously raised by BTS members, particularly regarding the treatment of idols under management companies. Seungkwan’s candid insights have sparked important discussions about the need for reform within the industry.
Plagiarism Controversies Involving BLACKPINK and Red Velvet
Creativity faced its own scrutiny as BLACKPINK and Red Velvet came under fire for allegations of plagiarism. Comparisons between BLACKPINK’s music video for “Whistle” and Red Velvet’s “One of These Nights” drew attention, with fans noticing significant similarities in visuals. This led to heated debates about originality and artistic expression within the K-pop landscape.
Source
www.news18.com