Hong Seunghan’s fans launch boycott against RIIZE albums

Hong Seunghan’s fans launch boycott against RIIZE albums

Fans of Hong Seunghan, a former member of K-pop group RIIZE, have engaged in a boycott against the group’s and other SM Entertainment artists’ albums by labeling them with “RIIZE is 7” stickers.

However, this action is potentially illegal, as it could be classified as impeding business operations and property vandalism.

Previously, on the afternoon of October 18, a group of RIIZE fans gathered in front of SM Entertainment’s headquarters to stage a protest demanding transparency regarding Seunghan’s sudden departure from the group. The protest comes after the announcement that the idol has been kicked out of RIIZE.

The protest was not limited to fans physically present in the SM building in Seoul. International supporters also participated by sending trucks with LED screens displaying messages of frustration and requests for the company to clarify the circumstances behind Seunghan’s departure.

Protest trucks and signs displayed slogans reflecting fans’ dissatisfaction with the situation. Some of the key messages included:

  • “Make the departure procedure public”.
  • “SM, protect Hong Seung Han.”
  • “Ask to reverse the decision and reinstate Seunghan into the group.”
  • “RIIZE is ‘The Big Dipper’” – a reference to the seven stars that form the famous constellation, symbolizing the group’s original seven-member lineup.
  • SM and Wizard Production staff must be very tired these days, right?
  • Idols are human beings with emotions and can be hurt. Stop treating them like robots or puppets!
  • SM should be ashamed for allowing bullying of their artists.
  • Is this the first time the company has seen fans discuss an artist’s personal life? Due to your incompetence, this is the first time an artist has received 1,000 funeral crowns

Previously, on October 11, after SM Entertainment announced Seunghan’s return to RIIZE, fans strongly opposed the decision on social media.

Rize Seunghan

Seunghan, who halted activities last November due to personal scandals, faced harsh criticism upon his return. The reaction intensified when RIIZE fans sent white funeral wreaths to SM’s headquarters, fearing that its scandals would damage the group’s image. By October 12, approximately 1,000 wreaths were sent, urging Seunghan to leave the group, as fans preferred RIIZE’s current six-member lineup.

In response to strong fan reaction, on the evening of October 13, SM Entertainment announced that Seunghan would be leaving RIIZE permanently.

Netizens’ comments:

  • Only 20 people? Sigh, that’s less than the number of NCT members.
  • The artist himself caused these problems, so why are they protesting? The company must have suffered a big loss too. If they are fans, they should just support his solo.
  • Seriously, less than the number of NCT members LOL
  • MS is still taking care of him, so when the solo comes out, support him enthusiastically.
  • So many fans hate him and sent all those funeral wreaths. Why ask him to come back? Isn’t it better to ask for mental health help, legal support, and solo promotions?
  • Go alone.
  • They criticized RIIZE members for lack of loyalty, spread rumors and now they want him back in the group?

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