Karina, a prominent Kpop singer from aespa, recently found herself in the eye of a storm following reports of her relationship with actor Lee Jae-wook. Their respective agencies’ confirmation of their relationship triggered a swift and mixed response from fans across Asia. After receiving such backlash due to the dating confirmation, Karina took Instagram to share a heartfelt apology letter.
Kpop Idols Dating is Still Taboo?
Publicized relationships can be taboo in South Korea and Japan, where idolizing stars is prevalent. The stringent rules imposed on Kpop stars by their labels often deter them from dating publicly, fearing backlash and losing fan support.
Despite the traditional norms, there are signs of change within the industry. Agencies are gradually shifting away from strict regulations, allowing stars more freedom in their personal lives. However, the pressure from fervent fanbases remains a significant factor influencing the behavior of Kpop stars.
How Fans Respond to aespa Karina and Lee Jae Wook Dating Confirmation
The response from fans has been divided. While some have rallied in support of Karina, urging for more privacy for idols. Meanwhile, others remain disgruntled, questioning the sincerity of her apology and expressing dissatisfaction with her relationship status.
According to the Chosun Ilbo, enraged fans went as far as dispatching a truck adorned with an electronic billboard to Karina’s agency headquarters. The sign displayed a message questioning Karina’s loyalty to her fans: “Do you not feel loved enough by your fans? Why have you chosen to betray them?”
The message also issued a stark warning: “Please apologize directly. Otherwise, you’ll see declining album sales and empty concert seats.”
aespa Karina Shares A Handwritten Apology Letter
In response to the outcry, Karina took to Instagram, which boasts a substantial following, to express her heartfelt remorse. In a handwritten apology letter, Karina acknowledged the disappointment and upset among her fans due to her dating confirmation. Moreover, she vows to make amends and show maturity in her future endeavors.
“Hello, this is Karina.
First of all, I’m sorry for surprising you, and I’m sorry for the delay because I am being careful about the fans who must have been very surprised.
I know very well how disappointed the fans who supported me must have been and how upset they are as they recall the stories we shared. I feel even more sorry because I know how you feel.
I am writing this letter hoping that this feeling will be conveyed in some small way.
I am writing this despite the worry that I may be hurt again because I wanted to express my sincere apologies to the fans who have given me the warmest winter since the moment I debuted.
I want to make up for the hurt in the future. I am always sincere toward the fans, and each and every one of them is still very precious to me.
This may be a short post to express all my feelings, but thank you for reading. From now on, I want to show my fans that I am more mature and work harder without disappointing them. Please stay tuned.
Please eat well, and see you in good shape. I’m sorry, and thank you very much.”
Warm Support from Fans
Despite facing criticism, Karina’s apology letter garnered considerable warm support. In fact, some fans went as far as to suggest that she delete the post altogether, emphasizing that she had no need to apologize and asserting her right to have a boyfriend.
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Source: Chosun Ilbo, Instagram
