As idols are absolutely loved by their fans, they have to try to maintain their absolute image as idols
On November 22, RIIZE’s Seunghan declared his activity suspension. “I am well aware that my rash actions in the past are currently damaging too many people,” he said, adding, “I am reflecting on it.” I’m so sorry to the fans and RIIZE members who supported me. “I am deeply reflecting on myself because I think I have caused too much damage at a time when I have to work harder and devote myself more than ever,” he wrote in a handwritten letter on the fan platform Weverse.
His agency, SM Entertainment, also announced, “Seunghan is sincerely sorry and reflects on the disappointment and confusion caused to the members as well as fans due to his privacy-related issues that have recently been leaked and distributed through social media and online communities.” “As a result, Seunghan felt mental burden and responsibility, and after deep consideration, he expressed his intention to suspend his activities for the team.”
Earlier, a netizen posted a video on social media featuring a person believed to be Seunghan smoking on the streets of Japan when he was a minor. Previously, a video of Seunghan with Soobin, the leader of boy group TOMORROW X TOGETHER, was leaked. In the video, Seunghan criticized Soobin, saying, “You became ‘Music Bank’ MC even though you can’t dance, sing, or rap.” He also mentioned LE SSERAFIM’s Eunchar, saying, “You get to meet our Eunchae.” In addition, a photo of predebut Seunghan kissing a woman was posted on online communities in the past. These continuous controversies have led to netizens and RIIZE’s fans asking the idol to leave the group.
In August, SEVENTEEN’s Joshua was involved in rumors of dating a famous influencer. Netizens guessed this because Joshua and the girl wore products believed to be the same, photos taken at similar places were posted, and the girl was captured in the audience of Seventeen’s concert.
Some fans have called for Joshua’s withdrawal. At the same time, they even sent trucks demonstrating “Joshua’s withdrawal” and “anti-dating/lip-sync” to Pledis, his agency. Pledis, however, did not respond to the alleged rumors.
When it comes to dating rumors and dating issues, excessive standards are sometimes put on idols. As popular idols who influences many people, they are believed to have a responsibility to behave morally. Many idols suffer from pressure due to overly strict moral standards and fans’ unconditional opposition to dating.
Source: daum