K-pop fans know that SM Entertainment has a certain way when it comes to scouting for potential idols but the company is also known to have faced multiple backlash, lawsuits and even boycotts over the years. Despite all that, they still remain one of the biggest entertainment agencies in South Korea with idol groups like EXO, Red Velvet, NCT and Super Junior, to name a few.
Yesterday (Monday, 18th March), K-pop idol Woojin (김우진), a former member of Stray Kids, was reported to have signed as an artist under Kustomade, SM Entertainment’s sub-label. While some fans were happy about the news, others weren’t so excited and here’s why:
Kim Woojin was previously signed under JYP Entertainment while he was still an active member of Stray Kids but due to certain circumstances, he left the label to pursue a solo career. It was reported that the artist terminated his contract with JYP due to personal reasons but his departure left fans suspicious as to what actually happened.
Many suspected that Woojin was bullying his younger members judging by their reactions and demeanor whenever he was nearby. Although not confirmed, the speculations had caused STAYs (Stray Kids fans) to cancel the idol for his alleged bullying. Apart from that, the “In My Space” singer was also hit with sexual assault allegations not long after.
The case was eventually dropped due to a lack of evidence from the accuser and Woojin’s previous label 10x Entertainment also released a documentary to prove his innocence. Despite all the efforts, both the bullying and sexual assault allegations remain to haunt the singer to this day, which is why many called SM Entertainment out for recruiting him as one of their artists.
As seen in the screenshots above, netizens criticised the company for signing Woojin to their sub-label, even bringing up their other idols who were also hit with sexual assault allegations. Others also accused the label of favouritism and mistreating their artists by giving priority to one over the other. Of course, there were also fans who defended Woojin and showed support for his upcoming major comeback.
The idol himself has yet to make the official announcement. What do you think about the artist joining Kustomade?
Sources: Twitter (1)(2), SCMP, Koreaboo (1)(2)
