Despite the recent controversies surrounding K-pop groups and their concert schedules, IVE and Starship Entertainment are facing criticism for their choice to continue with a concert in Hong Kong on July 7.
The date is historically significant in Chinese history as it commemorates the anniversary of the Marco Polo Bridge incident, an event that sparked the beginning of the 2nd Sino-Japanese War.
July 7th is the Lugou Bridge Incident. That day should be a entertainment day. Starship really keeps touching the bottom line [sad]”- Shanxi 175
The controversy sparked when Chinese internet users expressed disapproval towards aespa’s initial decision to hold a concert in Fukuoka, Japan on July 7.
” #IVE THE 1ST WORLD TOUR ‘SHOW WHAT I HAVE’ IN JAPAN” Tokyo Dome performance \ Ticket agency first advance sale / LEncore members only advance sale (lottery) 5/15 (Wed) 12:00 reception starts 💥 ▼ Details here https://t.co/rmC1cfIrOq @IVEstarship_JP @IVEstarship @IVE_twt pic.twitter.com/A1n2yUjdcD
— Lawson Ticket (@lawson_ticket) May 12, 2024
There were major concerns specifically for aespa member Ningning, who is from China, as her participation in the event could have resulted in significant backlash in her home country.
Good for Shine 😭
— Lou (@enik_mma) May 11, 2024
Following this, aespa decided to delay their concert, recognizing the delicate nature of the date.
‘aespa fukuoka concert postponed’ trending 46 on weibo entertainment with over 42k discussion. pic.twitter.com/G6OkO0wqrF
— nyz. (@versaceningning) May 11, 2024
Currently, both IVE and Starship Entertainment are facing a comparable dilemma.
Despite not having any Chinese members, the choice to host a concert in Hong Kong, a Special Administrative Region of China, on July 7 has sparked significant backlash from Chinese internet users.
So good, with a white Chinese knot, wearing auspicious cloud patterns, holding a large fan, saying this is Korean culture, and then having a concert on July 7th, right, you… – Zhejiang 344
Their argument is that the selected date reflects a lack of consideration for historical grievances and cultural importance.
Isn’t this a rebellion? Do fans still want to give them a chance to reschedule? – Guangdong 700
Criticism has extended beyond just the entertainment companies.
Chinese netizens have expressed disappointment and anger towards the venue and fans, as they believe that their sentiments have been disregarded and both parties have come under scrutiny.
THE FOLLOWING ARE THE RESPONSES OF INTERNET USERS:
Wow what’s this? Are they going to revolt?
When will this company be banned?Holding a concert on Chinese territory on 7/7Culture theft + open provocation
July 7th is the Lugou Bridge Incident. That day should be a entertainment day. Starship really keeps touching the bottom line
Please ban Kpop
Everyone who goes should just change their nationality
Despite some calling for IVE to be blacklisted, social media platforms have been inundated with comments denouncing the decision.
The controversy has also sparked concerns about the potential impact on other K-pop groups in the Chinese market.
This time, the real-time listening of the new song on QQ Music has already fallen below 1000. It’s considered completely losing the market. The other several hundred years’ worth of old albums’ recorded songs are similar to this main track – Guangdong
Despite existing tensions between South Korea and China regarding political and cultural matters, the mistakes of entertainment agencies could exacerbate the situation and lead to a loss of support from Chinese fans, potentially affecting the success of their projects in the region.
Currently, it is unclear if IVE and Starship Entertainment will take into account the negative feedback and reconsider the scheduled concert date.
This event serves as a reminder of the significance of cultural sensitivity and awareness for entertainment companies in today’s globalized industry, where political tensions can easily affect the world of popular culture.
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