JTBC reported on June 30th that NewJeans had entered Tokyo Dome in Japan.
During their news coverage, JTBC aired an interview with a young fan who was eagerly waiting to enter the venue. The interview caused some controversy as the subtitles showed the fan stating, “I used to be a fan of BTS, but things are getting a bit risky now,”while JTBC’s caption read, “BTS fans are shifting to NewJeans.”
Following the broadcast, there was controversy among netizens regarding JTBC’s misinterpretation of a fan’s statement. It was clarified that the fan did not say, “I changed my favorite group from BTS to NewJeans”, but rather, “I still love BTS the most, but my affection for NewJeans is also growing”. Some individuals specifically noted that JTBC’s caption contained disrespectful language towards idols.
Amidst the growing controversy, JTBC made amendments to their video by revising it and rectifying the contentious subtitle to “I am a fan of BTS, but I also appreciate NewJeans.”
Despite ongoing criticism, JTBC has not offered any apology to BTS, NewJeans, and their fans, who were unfairly embroiled in a needless controversy due to a misinterpretation.
Both BTS and NewJeans have had a significant impact on the globalization of K-pop, with BTS being hailed as the undeniably top group in the industry. Despite only debuting in Japan five days prior, NewJeans quickly gained momentum and filled the Tokyo Dome. Both groups have contributed greatly to promoting Korea’s national prestige through their exceptional talents. Thus, engaging in unnecessary comparisons or fueling fandom rivalries only serves to tarnish the overall image of K-pop.
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