Eugenics Accusations
Jun Han, a member of the JYP Entertainment band Xdinary Heroes, has come under fire after making comments that were widely interpreted as supportive of eugenics (a set of beliefs and practices that aim to improve the genetic quality of a human population, which is heavily associated with Nazi doctrines) during a fan interaction. The remarks quickly drew criticism on social media, prompting a public apology from the artist and a formal statement from his agency.
The controversy began when Jun Han was conversing with a university student fan who was deciding on a research topic on the fan communication platform “Bubble”. As part of a discussion about genetics and gene amplification technologies, the male idol made a speculative comment asking whether it would be possible to amplify only “good genes”, before saying, “Black people are said to have more cells in their ears, making them better at hearing. That’s why they’re good at music. I was really envious. Would something like that be possible?”
He also added, “If we could combine the strengths of different races, such as the sugar-processing ability of white people, the physical abilities of Black people, the intelligence of Asians and Indians… It’s stem cell research, really. There are ethical issues, of course. But those who think it’s unethical don’t have to do it. As long as there’s consent, I think it’s okay.”
Jun Han’s comment, particularly the phrasing “combine the strengths of different races”, sparked immediate backlash, with many accusing the male idol of promoting eugenic ideologies, a concept historically associated with Nazi Germany and rooted in discriminatory science.
Public and Corporate Apologies
Jun Han’s apology
In response to ongoing criticism, Jun Han posted a handwritten apology on Xdinary Heroes‘ official Twitter account on June 29.
“I sincerely apologize for my careless remarks, which caused great discomfort and hurt to many people. I now realize how biased my views were and am reflecting deeply,” he wrote, adding, “I lacked the historical and social awareness to understand the weight of what I said. Moving forward, I will strive to educate myself and act responsibly, with respect and care for others.”
Later the same day, Jun Han reiterated his remorse on the fan communication app Bubble, writing, “I’ve said many ignorant things before without realizing their impact. I promise to speak with more care, study diligently, and grow into someone with sound knowledge and values.”
JYP’s Statement
JYP Entertainment also issued a formal statement acknowledging the incident and apologizing to fans and the public. “We deeply apologize to everyone hurt by the careless remarks made by Xdinary Heroes member Jun Han during a fan interaction,” the agency said.
The company emphasized that Jun Han is taking the matter seriously and reflecting on his actions. It also accepted responsibility for a lack of proper artist education and committed to improving training on social awareness, ethical communication, and cultural sensitivity.
“We will ensure that such incidents do not happen again by providing thorough guidance so our artists can engage with the public as thoughtful and mature individuals,” the statement also read.
K-net Reactions
Controversy has erupted online as netizens express outrage over an idol’s behavior and question JYP Entertainment’s handling of the situation.
- They should leave the group—I don’t want to support an idol with this kind of mindset. JYP has made plenty of members leave in the past, right? Is it that they only keep the ones who listen well?
- JYP always has a headache because of their boy groups.
- JYP always talks big about character and personality, but they just end up looking ridiculous every time. If they just kept quiet, they’d save face at least halfway.
- Will education even change anything? Their mindset is already…
- It’s only this mild because it’s Korea—if this were overseas, they’d be completely canceled. What did that idol even learn? It’s pathetic, seriously.
As criticism mounts, many are calling for swift action, warning that failure to address the issue could further damage both the idol’s reputation and the agency’s credibility.