K-pop newcomer Annienicknamed the “Shinsegae Princess”, she has sparked major controversy in South Korea following a viral video showing her allegedly violating traffic laws. A livestream clip recently circulated showing Annie and Samuel Lim riding a shared electric kickboard without helmets, and during the livestream it begs the question: “Isn’t that illegal?”
The act, which violates Korean road safety regulations, sparked even more ire when netizens noted that Annie appeared to face no real consequences. Critics argue that if it had been any other female idol, the backlash would have been much harsher. This perceived leniency has reignited debates over preferential treatment and whether the Korean media is patronizing her due to her elite background.
The most upvoted online comments expressed frustration:
“Let’s be honest, if she wasn’t rich, she wouldn’t have debuted. Bailey and Tarzzan dance on another level. Annie’s skills and visuals are average at best. What other trainee can show off a Lovestagram with her boyfriend before debuting?”
“People these days just love the rich. In every show PROJECT ALL DAY appears in turns in “Annie’s Chaebol Life”. Even when there’s only Tarzzan Radio starit is Annie’s family that is the center of attention. They keep praising her: “third generation but humble Chaebol”, “talented”, “pretty”, blah blah. Even after riding a kickboard, without a helmet, and live streaming with a guy, she still gets defended. Without that Shinsegae label, would it stand out at all?
The backlash goes beyond the car accident, calling into question whether Annie’s media presence and idol success stems more from her lineage than merit. Despite PROJECT ALL DAY Having only recently debuted, public interest is largely focused on Annie’s background as the granddaughter of Shinsegae’s president and a member of the Samsung family.
Born in 2002, Annie was already well-known in K-pop circles before her debut thanks to her connections with A-list stars such as G-DRAGON, CL and BLACKPINK. Since he debuted as a leader and rapper of PROJECT ALL DAYshe remained the focal point of the group. Although his abilities are considered stable, critics say he would not be an idol without the chaebol narrative. Many argue that it is the other members like Bailey, Tarzzan, Youngseo, and Woochan who truly display idol-level talent, while Annie attracts disproportionate attention.
The controversy intensified when PROJECT ALL DAY won a Daesang at KGMA 2025, a move many deemed premature for a group of rookies. Allegations even emerged that the prize was “bought” thanks to Annie’s powerful connections.
However, a segment of fans came to Annie’s defense. They argue that she is being unfairly targeted and that it is unreasonable to dismiss her abilities solely based on her wealthy background. Many insist that Annie deserves time to prove herself, underlining this PROJECT ALL DAY he’s just starting his journey and that talent needs time to shine.
Whether a case of privilege or a victim of public scrutiny, Annie’s situation reflects the ongoing tensions between wealth, fame and equity in K-pop.
Sources: K14
