IVE's leader Ahn Yujin is currently facing severe cyberbullying on Chinese social media, sparking outrage among fans.

On November 26, a post on X (formerly Twitter) revealed the extent of the malicious attacks targeting Ahn Yujin. The post quickly went viral, gaining 230,000 views and drawing attention from fans and online communities worldwide.

A user claiming to be a Chinese fan shared their frustrations, saying, “I’ve repeatedly contacted her agency about protecting Ahn Yujin, but there’s been no action.” They described the attacks as “out of control” and “beyond imagination.”

The fan revealed that Chinese netizens have been spreading false rumors and sharing manipulated images of Ahn Yujin to defame her.

“The scale and intensity of the bullying are damaging her reputation,” they added, urging her agency, Starship Entertainment, to respond firmly.

Fans in China have even organized protests, including a truck demonstration, demanding the agency protect Ahn Yujin. However, Starship has not issued an official statement, leaving many fans frustrated.

Comments from fans echoed this frustration:

• “The agency must act, even if it’s in China.”
• “Ahn Yujin deserves protection just like any other member.”

Some speculate that the bullying intensified due to IVE’s I AM music video, which featured Korean traditional elements like jeogori and norigae.

Ahn Yujin’s use of a gombangdae (traditional smoking pipe) sparked accusations from some Chinese netizens, who claimed it was “stealing Chinese culture.”

The issue flared up again after the 2024 MAMA Awards, where Ahn Yujin was accused of “stealing” Jang Wonyoung’s part during a performance. This claim gained traction on Douyin (Chinese TikTok), further fueling the hate.

Meanwhile, Starship recently won a legal case for another IVE member, Jang Wonyoung, against a defamatory online platform. Fans are now urging the agency to show the same level of commitment to protecting Ahn Yujin.

The lack of response from Starship Entertainment has left fans anxiously waiting for action, with many calling for justice to protect Ahn Yujin from further harm.

Source: [1]

Actress Lim Ji Yeon is finally opening up about the unexpected backlash she received after showing support for actor Jung Woo Sung during his controversial return to the public eye.

In an interview on January 23rd, following the end of her drama The Tale of Lady Ok, Lim Ji Yeon spoke candidly about the situation that caused a stir at the 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards in November last year.

At the event, Jung Woo Sung made his public return after facing controversy surrounding an “illegitimate child” with model Moon Ga Bi. While Jung Woo Sung took the stage to apologize, Lim Ji Yeon was seen clapping and cheering for him.

Reflecting on that moment, Lim Ji Yeon shared, "It was a brief moment, so it’s hard to say whether it was right or wrong." She added, "I didn’t expect the public’s reaction. On the other hand, I was cautious since The Tale of Lady Ok was airing at the time."

For those who missed it, Jung Woo Sung and Moon Ga Bi, who had been in a relationship since 2022, revealed last year that they were expecting a child.

The actor took full responsibility for the situation and issued an apology during the awards ceremony, saying, "I’m sorry for causing concern and disappointment to everyone who has shown me love and support. I will bear all the criticism, and I promise to take full responsibility as a father to my son".

However, while Jung Woo Sung addressed the controversy, it was Lim Ji Yeon’s show of support that sparked controversy.

She cheered enthusiastically for Jung Woo Sung, while actress Hye Ri, who was seated next to her, kept a neutral, expressionless face. This led to a wave of criticism from some netizens who questioned Lim Ji Yeon’s reaction.

It’s worth noting that Lim Ji Yeon’s agency, Artist Company, was co-founded by Jung Woo Sung and actor Lee Jung Jae, both of whom currently serve as directors.

Could this connection have influenced Lim Ji Yeon’s public display of support? She’s still processing the response, and fans are curious to know how she’ll handle the fallout moving forward.

Source: [1]