The creativity of Korean entertainment companies is well-known in the realm of official K-Pop merchandise. While some of their unique inclusions are highly praised, others can be met with controversy. Most recently, aespa’s album received commendation for being the first in the industry to include a CD player, showcasing their innovative approach.
aespa’s ‘Armageddon’ CD player version comes with — five photo cards— ten highlight medley graphic stickers— charger— earphones 🆕wireless earphones is also supported since it has bluetooth pic.twitter.com/itXXNWIsnM
— Jazz (@mjkmwntr) May 25, 2024
Despite the excitement surrounding ENHYPEN’s upcoming album, ROMANCE: UNTOLD, not all unconventional merchandise items receive the same level of enthusiasm.
Earlier today, ENHYPEN, under the management of BELIFT LAB, revealed that their second full-length studio album is scheduled to be released on July 12.
The announcement also revealed specific information about the items featured in the album, one of which has captured the interest of K-Pop enthusiasts due to its unique characteristics.
BELIFT LAB has announced that 150,000 pieces of clothing worn by the members of ENHYPEN will be cut and included in their albums.
The exact source of the fabric pieces has not been revealed, however it is speculated that they may be from the members’ performance outfits or from the music video for the title track.
Reactions to this announcement have been varied among fans and the general public.
Many fans believe that this merchandise concept violates the parasocial relationships between idols and their fans.
The argument is that these items only worsen the sasaeng problem, in which overzealous fans invade the private lives of K-Pop idols.
Moreover, the incorporation of fabric pieces has been met with scrutiny from certain fans who question its overall appeal and underlying motives.
This is not the initial instance where clothing items worn by idols have been utilized as merchandise.
Earlier this year, a bundle of EXO Kai’s jeans was given away as a special gift to fans during his solo concert LYNK-POP: THE VR CONCERT KAI.
The reaction to the keychains made from Kai’s jeans was mixed as well.
While some fans considered the unique memorabilia interesting, others thought it was strange.
Similarly, athletes and other celebrities have also incorporated items from their jerseys and uniforms into their merchandise for fans, not just limited to the K-Pop industry.
The incorporation of fabric elements into ENHYPEN’s album prompts inquiries about the trajectory of K-Pop merchandise and the limitations of fan-idol dynamics.
While certain fans may view it as a one-of-a-kind and individual keepsake, there are also worries about the potential for heightened fixation and its impact on the privacy and safety of idols.
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