2024 was a year full of K-pop scandals that often had fans scratching their heads thinking, "What were they thinking?". We cover our top 5 K-pop scandals that broke the internet this year!
Suga's DUI scandal
This had to top number one, for all of the wrong reasons. As we expressed at Dojeon Media several times, the star really should have been careful while riding a scooter through central Seoul. He could have afforded to take a taxi or limousine home with his wealth.
Back on the night of August 6, 2024, Suga fell outside the Nine One Hannam Luxury complex from riding an electric scooter after a heavy night of drinking. He was later arrested and booked for exceeding the blood alcohol limit. Thankfully no one was injured, but this led to protests outside of his label, calling for them to terminate his contract, and the case will soon be forwarded to prosecutors. What was he thinking? You can read more details here.
Min Hee Jin vs. HYBE
A power trip, if we have ever heard one. Hitting back and trying to gain a lot of media attention, Min Hee Jin has been no stranger to controversial Korean media this year. Having stepped down as CEO of subsidiary label ADOR, let's say through a power struggle, she had been trying to become a separate entity at the same time. This led to NewJeans also resigning and following in her footsteps.
After a very public media battle, Min Hee Jin decided not to pursue her reinstatement with the label anymore, and instead start her venture, which we are all looking forward to seeing how it plays out.
Former NCT Member Taeil's Sex Crime
August 28th, made headlines for NCT member Taeil as SM Entertainment announced that he had been removed from the group due to being under investigation for a sex crime, and in this case, it was towards a woman. He has been under investigation since June 2024. The member joined the band back in 2016.
BLACKPINK, RED VELVET
These K-pop mega names have been caught in plagiarism scandals and nothing gets passed their fans. This is mainly for copying someone else's work, or having similar stage designs, to other K-pop stars.
These incidents have sparked outrage in online communities where fans have become detectives in a bid to uncover the truth. In the case of BLACKPINK's debut, controversy swept, over their music video "Whistle". This was because it had strong comparisons to Red Velvet's "One Of These Nights" music video, from scenes of members in the car and also when they were gathered around the table.
Seventeen's Seungkwan speaking out about the toxic industry
Seungkwan spoke out about the toxic K-pop industry, however fans did not always want to hear about it. For those who are knee deep in the industry, there is a sense of contentment and those who are aspiring but perhaps not doing as well, feel that they are just a part in the machine. Since the K-pop industry is known for turning around artists in a harsh inhumane way.
In his public Instagram post, he stood with NewJeans on their position against HYBE, which was similar to BTS Jungook's placement in solidarity, against using sub labels and putting up with the mistreatment of their staff. This heartfelt message was very controversial at the time, and it called some employers such as SM, YG, and HYBE as bullies which hurled insults at idols on a daily basis. Did anything ever come of this? Unfortunately not, since labels have so much power and influence over hungry and eager stars are so replaceable.
2024 was a year full of controversial K-pop stories
2024 really has had some interesting and controversial news stories, which has kept the entertainment industry alive. Without these stories many stars would not have as much of a following, and the tabloids would just focus on all the bad that happens in the world. K-entertainment has hit new highs in 2024, and we wonder what 2025 will bring.
Leave a comment, and let us know your favorite 2024 K-scandal.
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