Fans Spent Millions, Got Cold Responses: Idol Attitudes During Fan Signs Under Fire
As video call fan signs become an increasingly common form of interaction between idols and their fans, several recent controversies have highlighted concerns over artist behavior and the impact it leaves on paying fans.
Back in November 2020, former Golden Child member TAG (Son Young-taek) came under fire for what fans described as a dismissive attitude. In particular, when asked “How long will promotions last?” by a fan who had spent around 2 million KRW (~$1,500) to participate in the fancall event, he coldly replied, “I can’t tell you that.”
Then, when the fan asked if there would be more content, he siad, “Why are you testing me?”. The clip spread quickly online, fueling backlash over TAG’s alleged lack of gratitude. However, many people defended the male idol, saying that the fan was showing sasaeng fan behavior, prompting TAG’s reaction.
Then in July 2023, THE BOYZ’s New (Choi Chan-hee) was criticized after a Japanese fan repeatedly asked him to do aegyo during a video call. He flatly refused with “No,” even after three requests. Netizens accused him of showing no effort during such a short and meaningful fan interaction, especially toward a foreign fan trying to communicate in Korean. His previous comment that 100% of The Boyz’s growth is due to the members’ effort without mention fans also resurfaced, stoking further controversy.
Lastly, in February 2023, ZEROBASEONE’s Kim Jiwoong was accused of cursing immediately after a video call fan sign ended. A fan released a clip allegedly capturing the moment, sparking outrage. Later on, his agency WakeOne denied the claim and began a digital forensic investigation, while Jiwoong himself also denied the accusation.
However, the fan rebutted the agency’s explanation, stating it relied too heavily on staff memory and lack authenticity. The fandom thus became divided, with some demanding Jiwoong’s departure from the group and others defending him.
Video call fan signs are intimate and often costly experiences for fans sometimes costing hundreds or thousands of dollars for just a few minutes. The recent controversies raise questions about idol accountability and what it truly means to respect the people who support their careers.
“An idol’s success isn’t built on talent alone it’s built on fan loyalty,” one comment read. “If you can’t show basic sincerity, why do a fan sign at all?”