ENTERTAINMENT
Super Junior's Ryeowook Expresses Regret Over Fan Injuries at Concert, Supported by Senior Singer Bada
On October 7, Ryeowook took to Instagram, saying, "As soon as the accident happened, I felt a lot of guilt towards the injured fans. I thought it was my fault they got hurt, wondering if it was because I got too close to them or if I could have done something more to prevent it." He recalled being in shock and unable to process the situation.
At the time of the accident, Ryeowook turned away, holding his head in his hands, which some criticized as irresponsible. Acknowledging this, Ryeowook stated, "I'm not someone who thinks quickly. I felt foolish for freezing in shock. If my reaction seemed inadequate, I apologize."
Upon seeing Ryeowook's post, SM Entertainment senior Bada commented, "Ryeowook, whom I've known for a long time, is a very kind-hearted person." She added, "I was there to support him, but he was so worried about the fans that we couldn't talk much."
After the accident, Ryeowook reportedly accompanied the injured fans to the hospital. He expressed gratitude, saying, "I talked a lot with the injured fans at the hospital. Despite their pain, they were concerned about me and apologized, which I won't forget."
Reflecting on the incident during the concert celebrating Super Junior's 20th anniversary, Ryeowook shared, "In over 20 years of performing, this is the first time I've witnessed such an accident up close. I'm grateful that the injuries weren't more severe."
Ryeowook promised, "We need to keep meeting our ELF fans, so Super Junior will be more cautious and attentive to safety. Let's meet safely without anyone getting hurt."
The accident occurred on October 5 during Super Junior's 20th-anniversary tour at Seoul's Olympic Park KSPO DOME. As the members interacted with fans, Ryeowook moved closer to the audience, causing some fans to surge towards the barrier. When Ryeowook reached out to fans, the barrier collapsed, and some fans fell from the stands to the first floor.
SM Entertainment stated, "The safety barrier installed by us collapsed, causing three fans to fall." The agency explained, "The injured were immediately taken to the hospital for necessary examinations and treatment, with doctors recommending two weeks of rest and treatment for sprains and bruises."
SM pledged support for the injured fans, saying, "We deeply apologize to the affected fans and their families. We will support their treatment and do our best until they fully recover." The agency also acknowledged their responsibility as the concert organizer and promised to enhance safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Reporter: Dayeon Jung, TenAsia light@tenasia.co.kr
