Japanese member Ni-Ki of the group ENHYPEN apologized after being embroiled in controversy over comments related to the Independence Movement Day.
On February 29, when a fan on the fan community platform Weverse said, “Korea will be off tomorrow,” Ni-Ki asked, “Is it a national holiday tomorrow?”
When another fan said, “It’s because it’s Independence Movement Day,” Ni-Ki commented, “I envy you.”
Ni-Ki’s reaction as a Japanese national, despite being active in Korea, was seen as a signal of ignorance of the historical background and significance of Independence Movement Day, leading to criticism in online communities.
As the controversy escalated, Ni-Ki apologized on Weverse in the morning of March 1st, saying, “I apologize for carelessly expressing myself about Independence Movement Day, an important national holiday. I realized my mistake and immediately deleted the post. I will be more careful in the future.”
There is also criticism against HYBE for not properly educating foreign members on Korea’s history despite the said idols being active in Korea. The idol’s apology has received mixed responses from fans.
What do you think of the controversy? do you think he should’ve apologized?
Source: (A)
