Controversial Attempts to Mainstream Subcultures by Celebrities Spark Public Outrage
Controversial Attempts to Mainstream Subcultures by Celebrities Spark Public Outrage
Famous celebrities who have attempted to bring subcultures into the mainstream are now at the center of controversy, facing public backlash. While they succeeded in generating buzz, they lost much more in the process. The content in question has been deleted and apologies have been issued, but the general consensus is that it is too little, too late.
Controversial Attempts to Mainstream Subcultures by Celebrities Spark Public Outrage
Controversial Attempts to Mainstream Subcultures by Celebrities Spark Public Outrage
On the 25th, Kwon Eun-bi and Lee Soo-ji appeared on the YouTube channel 'Drunk Impersonator,' discussing various topics. The teaser for the next episode featured BJ Kwak Juice Se-yeon. Lee Soo-ji had previously parodied Kwak Juice Se-yeon as 'Juicy Soo-ji' on 'SNL Korea,' which had garnered attention. Kwak Juice Se-yeon revealed on the show that her annual revenue reaches 3 billion KRW, drawing significant attention.

However, the public's reaction was cold. While the parody on 'SNL Korea' was seen as satire, Lee Soo-ji's actual invitation of Kwak Juice Se-yeon to mainstream subcultures disappointed many. Critics pointed out the harmful effects of 'broadcasts with exposure' (BJ's revealing broadcasts) and the potential negative impact on young viewers of a popular channel. They questioned the necessity of inviting a revealing broadcast DJ, especially as a fellow woman.

The video was deleted as the controversy grew, but public disappointment in Lee Soo-ji remains deep. While the production team also bears responsibility, direct criticism of Lee Soo-ji is unavoidable as she let down her fans.
Controversial Attempts to Mainstream Subcultures by Celebrities Spark Public Outrage
Controversial Attempts to Mainstream Subcultures by Celebrities Spark Public Outrage
A similar case involving Tak Jae-hoon has also resurfaced. Tak Jae-hoon invited Japanese AV actress Oguri Yuna to his web show 'No Filter Tak Jae-hoon,' boosting its viewership. He even invited her back for another episode. During the show, Tak Jae-hoon made remarks that could be interpreted as sexual harassment, drawing criticism from many viewers.

As the controversy spread, the production team edited out the problematic scenes and posted an apology, but Tak Jae-hoon himself did not apologize. This led many female viewers to turn their backs on him, and the response was criticized as gender-biased.

The public's reaction is clear. As public figures, celebrities need to be aware of the impact of their words and actions. It is time to prioritize positive influence over mere sensationalism.

Reporter Lee So-jung, TenAsia forusojung@tenasia.co.kr