The year 2024 started with a bang for the K-pop world, with a wave of talented 5th gen groups debuts and reunions of iconic names in the K-pop industry. It’s undeniable that 2024 has been another landmark year for growth and innovation.
However, amidst the glitz and glamour, not everything has been smooth sailing. The industry has also faced its share of turmoil. From shocking scandals to unexpected downfalls, here are eight controversies that have rocked the K-pop community in 2024:
1. HyunA’s Engagement With Yong Junhyung
Earlier this year, solo singer HyunA (현아) made headlines by announcing her sudden engagement to former HIGHLIGHT/BEAST (하이라이트/비스트) member Yong Junhyung (용준형), who was previously involved in the infamous 2019 “Burning Sun” scandal. The news came as a shock, particularly because HyunA had ended her six-year relationship with her ex-boyfriend DAWN (던), citing her unwillingness to get married—a statement that now seems contradictory and has only added fuel to the fire.
Earlier this month, HyunA shared their pre-wedding photos on Instagram, sparking an outpouring of negative comments from netizens. The controversial nature of their engagement has cast a shadow over both of their careers, with the public’s reaction far from supportive.
2. Former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin Vs. HYBE
In April, news broke that HYBE had asked Min Hee Jin (민희진), the now-former CEO of ADOR, to step down from her position. This request was reportedly due to claims that Hee Jin was trying to separate ADOR from HYBE, fueled by growing frustrations. The said reason was that HYBE delayed the debut of NewJeans (뉴진스) despite earlier promises and instead focused on debuting LE SSERAFIM (르세라핌) as their first girl group, which caused a rift between the parties.
The controversy rocked the K-pop community, especially when the 44-year-old CEO started openly criticising other groups that had nothing to do with the situation. Hee Jin also brought to light some troubling allegations against HYBE, including claims of manipulating music charts and having connections to a cult, further intensifying the scandal.
3. LE SSERAFIM At 2024 Coachella
When a K-pop group gets invited to perform at a big, well-known Western concert, fans usually celebrate because it means more exposure and recognition from a broader audience. In April this year, LE SSERAFIM had the exciting opportunity to perform at Coachella 2024, and the news was met with a lot of joy and anticipation.
However, despite this major achievement, the group faced a lot of criticism for their poor live vocals during the performance. Many people questioned whether the “UNFORGIVEN” singers were truly qualified to perform on such a big stage, with some accusing that they only got the chance because of HYBE’s influence rather than their own talent.
4. BTS’ Suga Scooter DUI Case
Last month, BTS (방탄소년단) member SUGA (슈가) found himself in hot water after being caught breaking the law by riding an electric scooter while under the influence of alcohol. HYBE initially claimed that he fell off the scooter after parking it outside his home, but a CCTV footage later revealed that the rapper had actually been riding the scooter on a busy road.
The “Daechwita” singer later issued a formal apology through a handwritten letter posted on Weverse, expressing remorse for his actions. Many are calling this incident the beginning of his “downfall era,” as recovering from a crime scandal can be extremely challenging for an idol.
5. Hyeri Vs. Han So Hee
In November 2023, Girl’s Day (걸스데이) member Hyeri (이혜리) ended her six-year relationship with actor Ryu Jun Yeol (류준열) with no reasons that were publicly disclosed. Just four months after their breakup, rumours began circulating that Jun Yeol was dating actress Han So Hee (한소희). Speculation quickly arose that Jun Yeol may have left Hyeri for the “My Name” actress.
So Hee promptly denied the rumours but went a step further by publicly criticising the Girl’s Day member on her Instagram account, which sparked backlash because Hyeri is considered her senior in the industry. Due to the overwhelming negative reactions and comments, the new couple eventually decided to break up.
6. IVE’s “HEYA” Concept
IVE’s (아이브) comeback song “HEYA” (해야) was met with widespread praise from global fans and Korean netizens alike for its stunning portrayal of South Korean culture in the concept and visuals. However, the excitement was short-lived for some, as China fans accused the group of “stealing” elements of Chinese culture that appeared in the music video.
This controversy quickly escalated, leading to a boycott of the comeback by Chinese fans, and the group’s social media posts were flooded with malicious comments. Despite this, the company did not address anything regarding the accusations.
7. BLACKPINK’s Jennie Indoor Smoking
Indoor smoking is banned in most public places in South Korea, so when BLACKPINK (블랙핑크) member Jennie (제니) was seen smoking a vape in a hotel room while getting her makeup done in one of her vlogs, it sparked a wave of backlash from netizens.
The situation worsened when it appeared that she exhaled the smoke towards a nearby staff member’s face, which many deemed as rude and disrespectful behavior. This controversy has led to significant criticism, and there’s even the possibility that the “Solo” singer could have faced a fine for breaking indoor smoking laws.
8. Former NCT Member Taeil’s Sex Crime
Most recently, the K-pop world was stunned by the news that NCT’s (엔시티) main vocalist, Taeil (태일), had been removed from the group. SM Entertainment announced his removal after he was involved in a serious criminal case related to sex crimes, saying they recognised how serious the matter was.
This news left many fans feeling disappointed and disgusted by Taeil’s actions. The situation also has caused a lot of anger and sadness among fans as they come to terms with the shocking turn of events.
Which 2024 K-pop controversy shocked you the most?
Sources: KoreaBoo (1)(2)(3)(4)
Alia contributed to this article.
