Popular YouTubers Face Backlash for Reckless Behavior: The Case of KwakTube

Popular YouTubers are repeatedly facing downfall due to their reckless behavior. The latest to come under fire is KwakTube, who had 2.11 million subscribers. However, after a controversial video seemingly defending Na-eun, his subscriber count quickly dropped by 10,000. While KwakTube is currently the hottest topic, controversies surrounding YouTubers are not a new issue.

As of the 18th, the controversy surrounding KwakTube shows no signs of abating. KwakTube is being criticized for defending Na-eun, who had halted her activities due to bullying allegations. The backlash has even led to a petition in Busan City to reconsider his participation in a travel concert.

Previously, in a video released on the 16th, KwakTube said to Na-eun, "I was sensitive whenever school violence stories came up. I immediately blocked you, but I saw an article saying it wasn't true," adding, "As a victim, I have shared many stories, but it seems I am also causing harm to those who are misunderstood."

The public expressed disappointment and anger at KwakTube's stance. KwakTube had previously represented the voice of school violence victims. Many criticized him for 'proxy forgiveness' of Na-eun, who was not a victim. Additionally, since school violence was KwakTube's selling point, his defense of Na-eun was seen as contradictory.

KwakTube quickly posted a brief apology, but it only fueled public anger. His statement, "I will deeply consider so that my personal feelings do not become everyone's stance," was seen as vague and further incited criticism. The public questioned whether his 'personal feelings' meant a personal liking for Na-eun.

There have been other YouTubers who faced downfall due to reckless remarks. The comedy channel 'SingleBungle' faced backlash for a video that seemed to belittle soldiers. They posted an apology a day after making the video private, but regaining public favor proved difficult.

Netflix's 'The Influencer' winner, Oking, also fell from grace. Oking was embroiled in a coin scam controversy and faced criticism for repeatedly lying despite multiple clarifications. He continuously apologized during live broadcasts and even hinted at extreme actions during one of them.

'Psick Univ' is another YouTube channel that faced a sudden downfall. They released a video visiting Yeongyang County in May, which led to a regional discrimination controversy. Despite apologizing and promoting Yeongyang County, the public had already turned away. Apologies after the fact were futile as both subscribers and reputation were lost.

While popular YouTubers are falling one by one, popular celebrities are filling the void. Unlike professional YouTubers, celebrities focus on heavy editing to minimize controversies.

The controversies surrounding YouTubers, who have less broadcasting experience than celebrities, were predictable. While they freely create content, the risks increase as their subscriber count grows. Many YouTubers, intoxicated by their rising popularity, tend to underestimate these risks. Self-censorship is crucial for creators, but they also need to reflect on themselves from others' perspectives.

Sojung Lee, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr