Seunghan's recent departure from the K-pop group RIIZE has sparked a heated debate among fans, leading to a stark divide within the fanbase.
Despite SM Entertainment's announcement of his return following a 10-month hiatus, many of RIIZE supporters have reacted with outrage, staging protests against his reintegration into the group.
The protests even escalated to the point where funeral wreaths were sent to SM Entertainment—a symbolic gesture typically reserved for mourning the deceased, which many found extreme and unsettling.
The protests comes after the announcement of Seungharen's return after a ten-month hiatus due to leaked photos depicting him engaging in smoking and intimate behavior, which angered many fans. But others also showed solidarity with the K-pop star.
Instagram user @yuyukimkimcouple in a post wrote how disappointing it was to witness the backlash.
"Ex-RIIZE Seunghan got a bunch of funeral wreaths. I don’t know much about him, but this is too much. People are sick.
"I want all people around the world to really be concerned about this behavior that happened in South Korea because this is not how you solve the problem," the user posted.
While some fans insist Seunghan's departure is justified, citing the pre-debut photos that surfaced of him allegedly smoking and kissing his ex-girlfriend, international fans have been more sympathetic.
Many argue against the extreme measures taken by those opposing his return, stressing that Seunghan's personal life should not be treated as a scandal deserving of public shame.
In an emotional post, one fan wrote, "I am really boycotting. Seunghan deserved so much better, I am genuinely done.”
Another user, Mayte, commented, "Wow, they really treated him like this for doing that. He is human, he isn't yours; he's an artist giving you music. We have to understand that idols are just artists, yes we love them, but they are also human.”
International fans also pushed back, calling for a more compassionate understanding of the artists they admire.
In a Thread post, user @gahyeon_kca posted pictures of a message that read: "SM stop looking for global impact if you're not listening to international fans! International fans spend money too."
In the same post, the user wrote: "Spending the most money' doesn't mean to ruin someone's dreams and life because of their acceptable life decisions. He wasn't even a criminal, he isn't even a criminal. he low-key deserves better."
Upon his exit from the group, Seunghan expressed his regret and gratitude in a heartfelt letter, crediting the members of RIIZE for their support during this difficult time.
While details remain vague, the Seunghan's exit from the group has left fans confused, with many blaming the intensity of the protests for the decision.
One concerned fan commented, "I hope people around him check on him and make sure he's okay.”
In South Korea, idols are often held to exceptionally high standards, and controversies surrounding their personal lives can have severe consequences.