Introduction

On November 19, Yunah, a member of the girl group ILLIT, sparked a social media frenzy during a feature on Vogue Korea's YouTube channel. The group showcased the eclectic contents of their bags, presenting everything from personal diaries to unexpected snacks like spicy ramen and corn.

The Highlight of the Vlog

However, the moment that drew the most attention came when Yunah displayed a doll, proudly declaring it to be official merchandise from Red Velvet's Seulgi. "I really love Red Velvet's Seulgi. This is official merchandise from her. I don’t know if she will see this, but if we ever have promotions that overlap, I would love to film a dance challenge together and exchange numbers," she confessed, showcasing her admiration for the popular idol.

Netizen Reactions

Unfortunately, Yunah's innocent gesture of fandom quickly turned into a point of contention among netizens. Critics took to social media to voice their discontent with her mention of an SM Entertainment idol. Many felt that ILLIT's agency was attempting to use Yunah's admiration for Seulgi as a shield against the ongoing negative perceptions surrounding them, particularly amid concerns about the treatment of idols under the SM umbrella.

Criticism and Controversy

Comments ranged from accusations of insensitivity— "Their agency has done things to SM idols and yet they are so shameless"— to frustration over what some perceived as a deliberate strategy to garner attention by leveraging more established idols. Others urged the group to refrain from making such mentions, stating, "Please read the room," reflecting the backlash against the practice of bringing rival groups' names into their discussions.

Broader Implications

The controversy raises questions about the dynamics within the K-pop industry, where inter-group relationships can be complex and often scrutinized by the fandom. Many fans echo similar sentiments whenever up-and-coming groups mention established acts, fearing it might detract from their own identities.

Agency's Response

ILLIT's agency has yet to release an official statement responding to the backlash against Yunah’s comments. For now, the incident remains a hot topic among K-pop fans and observers, reflecting broader discussions about idol culture, agency exploitation, and the sensitivity required when navigating relationships within the competitive world of K-pop.

Conclusion

What do you think about this situation? Is it just an innocent admiration, or does it point to deeper industry issues? Watch the full video below and join the conversation!