K-pop entertainment agencies are no stranger to holding unique events to promote their idols’ new releases. However, Jellyfish Entertainment recently sparked backlash for their recent event plans for VERIVERY (베리베리) member Kangmin’s (강민) solo debut, with some calling it blatant objectification.
On 23rd March 2026 (Sunday), Jellyfish Entertainment announced a special event to commemorate the release of Kangmin’s solo debut later this week, on 26th March (Thursday). The promotional event is dubbed the Lucky Ticket event. There will be multiple winners, with each tier receiving different benefits, all of which are “dates” with the idol.
The one pink ticket winner will have the opportunity to go on a private one-on-one date with Kangmin. Meanwhile, 21 gold ticket winners will go on a group date with the singer at the Han River. An additional 250 black ticket winners will have the chance to go on a movie date with the star, with a separate chance to win some of his personal items during the event.
Unsurprisingly, the event sparked outrage among fans, with many calling it exploitative. Some also argued that the “dates” promote parasocial behaviour and objectify Kangmin by forcing him to partake in paid companionship. Others even likened the situation to Jellyfish Entertainment treating their idol like an escort.
Fans also expressed concern for Kangmin’s safety, noting that stalkers or obsessive fans may try to join the event to get close to the idol. Given the nature of the event, many fans are calling for Jellyfish Entertainment to cancel or reconsider the event. However, at the moment, the agency appears to be proceeding with its plans.
While idol events that prioritise fan interactions are common in the K-pop industry, many agree that Jellyfish Entertainment has gone too far with this Lucky Ticket event. Let’s hope the agency will reconsider the event and focus on promoting Kangmin’s solo debut more appropriately.
UPDATE (Tuesday, 24th March 2026)
Following backlash from fans, Jellyfish Entertainment announced changes to the original plans for the Lucky Ticket event, particularly the Pink Ticket winner. Instead of one fan going on a private date with Kangmin, there will now be five winners, with the group partaking in a perfume making workshop with the idol. While there are still some criticism, fans thanked the agency for addressing their concerns.
Source: Twitter
