Super Junior's Choi Si-won was engulfed in fierce controversy after posting a tribute to far-right political commentator Charlie Kirk. He ultimately sent a lengthy message directly to fans to explain. In the year marking his 20th anniversary since debut, calls for Choi Si-won's withdrawal even arose.
On the 12th, Choi Si-won said through the official fan community Bubble, "Charlie Kirk was the head of a household and a husband, and he lost his life in a shooting during a lecture. Regardless of political leanings, it was such a tragic event that I paid tribute," he said. He added, "After I posted, the media showed great interest, but it seemed to be interpreted in a different way than I intended, so I deleted the post. However, as interest continues, I will explain once more."
Earlier, Choi Si-won posted on his social media the words REST IN PEACE CHARLIE KIRK along with a photo of the deceased, and later shared a family photo and a Bible verse. But once it became known that Charlie Kirk was a close aide to former President Trump and a figure who had caused controversy for far-right remarks, support for guns, anti-LGBTQ bias and racism, fans' disappointment grew uncontrollably.
As the controversy grew, he deleted the post, but the fallout did not subside. Some fans created accounts demanding "Choi Si-won withdrawal," and among overseas fans the hashtag campaign #SIWON_OUT is spreading.
Nevertheless, Choi Si-won continued to respond by sharing Bible verses, saying, "I am fine. Please offer intercessory prayer for those who may be cursing me. That is the way of a Christian."
The issue is timing. This year Super Junior is holding the commemorative tour "SUPER SHOW 10" to mark their 20th anniversary since debut. During this time, Choi Si-won has been active in films such as Forbidden Fairytale, the play Lobby, and as the MC of Channel A's dating variety show Heart Pairing, and he has said he would "do his best with every opportunity given." But this controversy has brought extraordinary attention to the 20th anniversary celebrations.
Internet user reactions are divided. Some said, "It was just a simple tribute, so making it political is excessive," and "The feeling of mourning a tragic death itself should be respected." On the other hand, opinions poured in saying, "Paying tribute to a far-right figure is no different from endorsing that ideology," and "It's a mistake that crosses the line to protect with fandom."
Choi Si-won faced an unexpected and intense backlash on his 20th debut anniversary. How Choi Si-won moves forward will likely become an important crossroads.
[Photo] OSEN DB, SNS
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