Between the continuous control of k-pop idols and the use or improper use of racially sensitive terms, Shinee is onew He made praise widespread for his cultural awareness and proactive communication with fans during his current US tour.
During a recent concert, Onew stopped to clarify a particular text in his song which, on the ears not Koreane, could resemble the N-Word. In particular, before encouraging fans to sing together, he said, “In that side at the beginning, that part that sounded N is not destined to seem like this. I wanted to ask, it doesn’t take off that way, right?”
Literally nothing could have prepared me for onew asking for Naega and the world n, but I will not even lie … since a black kpop kpop the last month had been so exhausting and the fact that my favorite is doing everything to make sure it is respectful makes me feel safe pic.twitter.com/lcicoqbb5b
– Be always with U ✧ Taemin 3x • Onew 2x (@shykneewrld) May 1, 2025
When the crowd replied reassuringly with a sensational “no”, onew visibly relaxed and added, “Ah, it’s a relief. Because in Korean texts, this word appears a lot.”
Onewing church with the crowd making everyone know that he was not saying the English word, but rather “I am” in Korean. Very culturally aware, I love this for him. If onew knows that word, there is no excuse for these other idols! #Onewthelive_chicago #Onewthelive_usa pic.twitter.com/cyy04bn8xm
– Manager Pr of 4 minutes à¨à§â‹†ï½¡à¨à§â‹†ï½¡à¨à§â‹†ï½¡à¨à§â‹†ï½¡ (@Jiyoonisms) May 1, 2025
The moment, captured in a now viral clip, has aroused a wave of positive reactions from international fans and netizens. Many praised Onew for his cultural sensitivity, self -awarenessAND respectful approach ensure that no part of its performance would have been interpreted badly or cause discomfort.
Contrary to the recent disputes involving clips leaked from other idols such as the members of Blackpink accused of accidentally used the SLUR racial and the group of girls Kiss of Life who face a reinforcement for cultural appropriation in a live broadcast, the preventive clarification of Onew has been seen as a Model for the conduct respectful of global performance.
