IU, NewJeans, and Other Top Stars Named in South Korea’s Controversial ‘Communist List,’ Sparking Public Concern
On February 12, a controversy erupted in South Korea after an anonymous “communist list” surfaced, naming prominent political figures, K-Pop artists, and cultural icons. The list, shared by Democratic Party lawmaker Rep. Jung Chung-rae via Facebook, has sparked alarm and criticism among netizens.
The list includes 107 individuals, with Rep. Jung Chung-rae himself among them. Other notable political figures named include former South Korean President Moon Jae-in and Democratic Party Chair Rep. Lee Jae-myung. The inclusion of these figures has led many to speculate that the list was created by far-right supporters as a means to discredit liberal-leaning public figures.
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K-Pop Artists Among the Named
Perhaps most strikingly, the list also features several high-profile K-Pop artists, including IU, NewJeans (NJZ), and NMIXX. All three have been previously linked to supporting civilian protests demanding the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk-yeol after his controversial attempt to declare martial law. IU and NJZ notably provided food for fans attending the protests, while Kyujin of NMIXX encouraged demonstrators to stay warm while protesting.
Other celebrities named include actress Park Bo-young, singer Lee Chae-yeon, actor Lee Dong-wook, and girl group STAYC. Their inclusion on the list has raised concerns over the targeting of entertainers who have publicly expressed social or political views.
Acclaimed Authors and Filmmakers Also Targeted
Beyond the entertainment industry, the list names Han Kang, the acclaimed Korean novelist who became the first Korean and Asian woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2024. Han Kang is well known for her critical stance on state violence, a recurring theme in her literary works.
Filmmakers were also included, with Oscar-winning director Bong Joon-ho, “Squid Game” creator Hwang Dong-hyuk, and TV personality Yoo Jae-suk among the named. Bong Joon-ho was a vocal advocate for Yoon Suk-yeol’s impeachment, while Hwang Dong-hyuk similarly spoke out before the release of “Squid Game 2.”
Public Outcry and Concerns Over Historical Parallels
While the origin of the list remains unclear, some news outlets have drawn unsettling parallels between it and the “arrest squads” allegedly referenced by counterintelligence chief Yeo In-hyung on the day Yoon Suk-yeol announced martial law.
Although some politicians on the list have responded with sarcasm, no celebrities have commented publicly. However, netizens are expressing deep concern. Online reactions include warnings such as “This is not something we should laugh about” and “If (martial law) had succeeded, it would have been a bloodbath.”
As discussions surrounding the list continue, its implications highlight growing political tensions in South Korea and the risks faced by public figures who engage in activism.