Taeyong of NCT is currently receiving intense backlash after a post on his Instagram Story that has been connected by numerous fans to his group’s current partnership with Starbucks.
The dispute sparked on May 30 when Taeyong, currently serving in the military, included the term “Boycott”in his Instagram Story, which has since been removed.
Taeyong’s instagram story”Boycott”Let’s continue to speak up everyone 🙏🙏 pic.twitter.com/Fnm7fn1dIc
— Dyva🌸 (@captainuwu) May 30, 2024
The post sparked a swift and intense response online, with many seeing it as a statement against the Starbucks partnership due to the company’s involvement in ongoing boycotts in support of Palestine.
Despite the potential professional risks involved, especially given his status as an enlisted idol, the post gained traction quickly with a significant number of fans praising Taeyong for taking a stand.
The reaction from netizens, on the other hand, was not unanimous.
Taeyong has stopped drinking SB since the boycott started and now even he’s in the military and has only few hours to use his phone he’s still being the only one who speak up and posting it on his IG declaring that he’s indeed boycotting sb and NOT supporting any collaboration. pic.twitter.com/kR4F4pMq1v
— Also (@Ieetaesthetic) May 30, 2024
But he still promoted Puma with other members. And then he didn’t say anything. Perhaps ‘cos the manager would have deleted his post not after 20 min, but immediately? I’m glad he speaks now, but people somehow forgot he didn’t say anything when he was under Puma’s contract.
— 🇺🇦🌻૮₍. ◜◡◝₎ა🌻🇺🇦 (@ill_be_ur_home) May 30, 2024
Despite the backlash on social media, Taeyong’s actions were deemed by many as reckless and selfish, potentially damaging NCT’s image and the well-being of his fellow group members.
The comments varied from disappointment to anger, with some individuals accusing Taeyong of not taking into account the consequences of his actions on the group’s overall image and their collaborative work.
One individual who left a comment mentioned:
“Would other members want to see fans leaving? They’re probably just staying quiet because of the images haha.
Ah, seriously, NCT’s image is really taking a hit.”
Another person criticized him even more harshly, stating:
“The leader acting like he doesn’t care about the other members, even while in the military. The king of selfishness.”
The backlash underscores the intricate terrain that K-pop idols must navigate while discussing social or political issues.
While certain fans praise their idols for being vocal about social or political issues, there are others who believe they should remain impartial in order to safeguard their careers and the group’s reputation.
Boycott what? Be brave and name it
— 💞 (@NotHerAgainDamn) May 30, 2024
he only has 3 hours of phone time during his day and he used it for good even though it could have repercussions from both the military and SM. that’s how you stand on business pic.twitter.com/HR5tWgYKi9
— vexie 樂✯ (@nyanrachas) May 30, 2024
The impact of Taeyong’s actions on the reputation of NCT is amplified due to his role as the group’s leader, making his case especially challenging.
This occurrence further emphasizes the fragile equilibrium that idols must maintain between their personal beliefs and professional duties.
In the intensely scrutinized realm of K-pop, where fans and critics closely monitor and analyze idols’ actions, there can be serious repercussions for speaking out.
Taeyong’s situation is an example of the ongoing discussion within the K-pop community regarding the obligations and duties of idols in regards to social and political matters.
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