Controversy in the domestic market, still calling themselves 'stars' overseas... fan reactions are mixed
Seungri, who was dishonorably discharged from Big Bang due to the 'Burning Sun incident,' and Yoo Seung-jun (Steve Yoo), who is banned from entering the country due to military evasion controversy. Both continue to refer to themselves as 'stars' while active on the international stage, but public sentiment domestically remains cold.
Earlier, Seungri was seen attending a fan event in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, which was captured online. At the event, he engaged with fans through dance and song, but the issue was his mention of 'G-Dragon.' Seungri said, 'I will bring G-Dragon here someday,' summoning his former colleague, and even danced to the unit song 'GOOD BOY.' While overseas fans cheered, domestically the criticism poured in: 'Why is a person who caused a critical blow to the team's image and withdrew due to the Burning Sun incident bringing up G-Dragon now?' Far from reflecting, his my-way attitude drew furrowed brows.
Meanwhile, singer Yoo Seung-jun, who is active in Los Angeles, has recently come under scrutiny. A revelation through an online community spread that he was performing in LA while introducing himself as 'Korea's superstar.' Actual videos of him singing his hits 'Na Na Na' and 'Passion' were subsequently released. In response, netizens expressed displeasure, stating, 'Superstars are not self-proclaimed; they are decided by the people,' and many provided sarcastic feedback, saying, 'It seems he is still stuck in the 90s.'
Both individuals have lost their footing in the domestic market due to past controversies and legal issues, but they continue to consume the image of their 'glory days' overseas. In today's world, relying solely on 'past glory' does not work. While they may be laughing overseas, domestically, their continued lack of reflection causes people to shake their heads. It appears they are exacerbating their own controversies.
Meanwhile, Yoo Seung-jun was embroiled in military evasion controversy after acquiring U.S. citizenship in 2002, leading to his ban on entering the country. After his application for an overseas Korean visa (F-4) was denied in 2015, he filed an administrative lawsuit and ultimately won in 2023 at the Supreme Court, but the LA Consulate General still refuses to issue a visa. Recently, the first trial date for his third administrative lawsuit was held, indicating that legal battles are ongoing.
Seungri was identified as a key figure in the 2019 'Burning Sun Gate' and was sentenced to 1 year and 6 months in prison for charges including prostitution mediation and overseas gambling before being released. He has since continued to face controversies over his private life and social media exposure.
[Photo] OSEN DB
[OSEN]