It owes its name to its previous charitable commitment.
Stray Children FelixThe recently announced ambassador position has sparked debate.
On September 22, Felix was appointed UNICEF Korea Committee Goodwill AmbassadorAccording to the organization, he was selected for his previous donations and services, including volunteering in Laos.
In making the announcement, Felix stated that he accepted the role because he wanted to protect the happiness of all children.
I decided to take on the role of UNICEF Korea Committee Goodwill Ambassador because I want to protect the pure happiness of all children. I am grateful for the love I have received from fans. With that love as my strength, I want to give my all to share love with children.
— Felix from Stray Kids
However, the announcement has sparked some debate among Internet users.
While Felix has shown support for many in need around the world, some have called out the idol for his alleged lack of support shown for the ongoing human rights violations taking place in Palestine. As the additional attention placed on what is happening in Gaza Strip Since it began, many have called for a ceasefire, as thousands of innocent Palestinians have been killed in bombings and attacks by Israeli forces.
K-pop idols and Korean actors join fundraiser for Gaza
Some felt that Felix did not “deserve” the position due to his perceived lack of outside support or have since called for him to release a statement following his nomination.
he doesn’t deserve it by the way. https://t.co/61ea8KxqHU photo.twitter.com/4LZzFbqKlO
— 『jυlιno』🍉 🇱🇧 0.03🌍 (@3rachaonmyfood) September 23, 2024
I couldn’t be happier. Now that you are the ambassador of UNICEF, which is under the UN, can you use your platform to speak up for the Palestinians? @Strange_Boys #TakeAStepAndSpeakOutLoud #LiberatePalestine Italian: https://t.co/7q11UDvj5w
— Parsa🍉check 📌|| SEUNGMIN DAY|| among other things for the exams (@shiriaparsa_) September 23, 2024
On the other hand, many have pointed out that UNICEF helps all children in the world, including those in Palestine. Furthermore, many have stated that even without a direct demonstration of support, Felix has managed to raise awareness, leading fans to donate.
To say that he didn’t deserve to be a Goodwill Ambassador because he is silent about something is crazy. Yes, it is a huge problem, but it is not the only one in the world. A Goodwill Ambassador is someone who supports +
— Yongbokarin 🐉 Mother of Dragons (@yongbbokarin) September 23, 2024
I have yet to see a Jype idol speak up, so they MAY be limited. His fans have also donated to that cause and continue to donate in his name. His sister openly raises money for that cause in particular, so she definitely donated. They should leave him alone, he can’t solve all the problems, but he’s trying to help https://t.co/12RWb88eRF photo.twitter.com/2BAnEbyxGS
— 🥠 Mileydns🥠꩜ ⥉ 🥀 (@MileyD76) September 23, 2024
Kpop idols have so many things they can and can’t do, this is their reality and it’s sad.
Felix is doing his part in this world by donating to UNICEF, where many children will benefit. He is doing more than enough and deserves the title of Goodwill Ambassador. https://t.co/w5SAkUuA6d
— Camille alien ♡ (@yongbokhaeyo) September 24, 2024
Furthermore, Happy (AND Stray children as a whole) has donated to Save the childrenan organization that has been providing support to Palestinian children for decades. Felix’s level of support for this organization has even earned him membership in Save The Children’s honor club.
While fans recognize that others can ask Felix to speak out, many don’t want his charitable actions to go unnoticed.