VIVIZ Under Fire for Referencing Controversial Fanfiction in Message to JYJ’s Jaejoong
VIVIZ came under scrutiny following their appearance on Jae Friends, a show hosted by JYJ member Kim Jaejoong. The controversy arose when the group filled out a pre-show questionnaire, referencing a line from a mature-themed fanfiction about Jaejoong.
When asked about their impression of Kim Jaejoong, VIVIZ wrote, “So it’s you, the pretty one from Class 8,” a line from a popular yet controversial fanfiction dating back to Jaejoong’s TVXQ era.
This reference sparked criticism, particularly given Jaejoong’s previous expressions of discomfort with the mature content of the fanfiction.
Fans have pointed out a perceived double standard in how such incidents are handled based on gender, with many suggesting that male idols would face harsher criticism for similar behavior.
One fan commented, “If a male idol had done this, all the online communities would be bashing him non-stop for sexual harassment. Honestly, this only ended here because his fans held back. If it were another singer or actor, things would’ve blown up. It’s fine even if it’s a bit late; I hope they properly edit it out. What used to be acceptable in the past doesn’t sit right today.”
Although the line has become a popular meme in South Korean culture, appearing on merchandise and even in dramas, fans remain concerned about its origins and implications. Many are calling for more careful editing of the episode.
Another fan expressed, “Above all, isn’t it strange that a meme is what comes to mind when they think of Jaejoong? Did they think of that knowing what it means? This profile would have been seen during filming, and it’s disturbing that he himself had to read it. Jae Friends is a program I’ve loved, but this is shocking. Those who say we’re overreacting need to realize that the meme originated from trolls, and both Jaejoong and his fans feel uncomfortable and hurt by it. Every time this phrase is referenced, it brings unwanted attention.”
Following the backlash, the question and answer have since been removed from the show’s YouTube community page.