G-Dragon Faces Backlash from Chinese Fans Over 'Lunar New Year' Remarks at Dubai Concert

K-pop star G-Dragon has sparked controversy among some Chinese netizens after mentioning 'Lunar New Year' during a concert abroad.

On January 17th, G-Dragon performed at the 'Crazy Super Concert' music festival in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. During the event, he extended New Year greetings to the audience, referring to the holiday as 'Lunar New Year.' This choice of words upset some Chinese fans, who felt he should have used 'Chinese New Year' instead.

In response to the ongoing debate, Professor Seo Kyung-duk of Sungshin Women's University addressed the issue on his social media on February 2nd. He criticized the unfounded claims by Chinese netizens, stating, "The baseless assertions by Chinese netizens are becoming increasingly severe. Lunar New Year is not solely a Chinese tradition but an Asian cultural celebration." He further praised G-Dragon for using the correct term without succumbing to pressure from Chinese fans, calling him a true global star.

Professor Seo also highlighted a recent post by The New York Times' official social media, which clarified, "Lunar New Year is the most significant holiday in several Asian countries, known as Chunjie in China, Seollal in Korea, and Tet in Vietnam."

He concluded by urging Chinese netizens to learn to respect other countries' cultures and adopt a global mindset.

Reported by Kim Ji-won, TenAsia one@tenasia.co.kr