Sasaengs are terrifying individuals to whom the concept of boundaries seems entirely foreign. They are known to stalk their idols, break into their homes, and even alert other sasaengs to the stars’ whereabouts and activities, putting them in serious danger. TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) members Soobin (최수빈 ) and Hueningkai (휴닝카이) were the latest targets of these sasaengs’ disturbing behaviour.
The boy group’s leader was recently mobbed in China alongside his fellow idol friends, ZEROBASEONE’s Zhang Hao and ONEUS’s Keonhee, while the maknae was criticised after someone shared a photo of him with an unidentified woman on the street at night. Here’s how both of them responded to the incidents:
Soobin
Soobin took to WeVerse to reassure MOAs (TXT fans) that he and his friends were fine, and that they had nothing to apologise for or worry about. After returning to Korea, the singer said he was well aware that the people who mobbed them were not genuine fans, explaining, “They weren’t MOAs, they weren’t fans of anyone. I know how to tell the difference, so don’t worry.”
The idol added that he had originally intended to take plenty of photos during his trip, but after what happened, it seems those plans have now changed. Although fans were disappointed that his holiday had been cut short, they were also relieved to know that Soobin was safe and unharmed.
Hueningkai
Normally, when an idol is caught up in a dating rumour, their label would be the one to issue an official statement. However, Hueningkai took matters into his own hands and directly addressed the photos that had been circulating. For context, the TXT maknae was reportedly spotted with an unidentified woman alone on the street at night. Some speculated that he was secretly dating, while others suggested that the woman might have been one of his sisters.
The musician took to WeVerse to clarify that the woman was an acquaintance, and that he had simply been making sure she arrived home safely before returning to his dorm. “I couldn’t leave them in that state, so I took them home and went straight back to the dorms myself. We were [at a bar] because it was the holidays, and it was the only place open at the time. This was what happened, but first of all, I’m so sorry to have worried you guys.” MOAs expressed their frustration, saying that Hueningkai should not have apologised, as he had done the right thing by making sure his friend got home safely. Others condemned the sasaeng for sharing the photos and details of his private time with friends.
It’s truly unfortunate that TXT were unable to enjoy their private time with friends in peace without these sasaengs causing trouble. Hopefully, incidents like these won’t happen again, as they, like everyone else, deserve some time off with the people closest to them. Let this be a reminder to all that whenever you see an idol in public, allow them to have their space.
