The company removed a fancam of their viral performance.
SM Entertainment is once again under fire Red Velvet fans after the company removed a popular video of the group’s recent performance SMTOWN Live in Seoul concert. The incident reignited accusations of negligence and unfair treatment against the women’s group.
During SM Entertainment’s 30th anniversary concert, several artists participated in a special project where they performed covers of iconic songs from other SM groups. Among the highlights of the event was Red Velvet’s rendition of Girls’ Generation’s hit “Run Devil Run.” Irene, Seulgi and Joy delivered a captivating performance that quickly gained popularity online. Fans were particularly impressed with how the trio brought a fresh, sensual energy to the classic track, showcasing their powerful vocals and established stage presence.
Red Velvet’s sexy “Run Devil Run” performance earns viral praise from Koreans
Red Velvet (Irene, Seulgi, Joy) – Run Devil Run (orig. Girls’ Generation) pic.twitter.com/uT5nK0nrep
— Elle ꨄ︎ (@chobomseulrene) January 12, 2025
Videos of the performance were soon shared across social media platforms and video sharing sites, with one clip on YouTube garnering over 110,000 views in just a few hours. The overwhelming praise reflects the excitement of fans who rarely get to see this bolder, sexier side of Red Velvet. However, their excitement was short-lived.
SM we see your evil spirit pic.twitter.com/juCDqWtlC7
— yes 🚀❀ (@veIvetspice) January 13, 2025
They saw Run Devil Run get the most views and said we need to lock the camper in the basement so they don’t outshine the others. https://t.co/m6eByS4GTS
— bear_cabbage (@bearandcabbage) January 13, 2025
The popular video was removed due to a copyright complaint by SM Entertainment, sparking outrage among fans. Many have pointed out that similar videos showing performances by other artists at the same event remain online, fueling accusations of bias and mistreatment. Social media platforms were quickly flooded with fans’ frustrations, with posts calling out SM Entertainment garnering thousands of likes and retweets.
when reveluvs said that SM is Red Velvet’s biggest hater and have mistreated them since debut, we meant it! all my bookmarks are copyrighted, but not the performances of other SM artists. https://t.co/fg99VUKf4k pic.twitter.com/H034mXPZm5
— sel 🌷 like a flower 🌷 (@ISWJYRV30) January 14, 2025
the way I would understand a copyright complaint if it was a clip that goes beyond live, but fancams are generally safe to post so there’s no point
— Roo #COSMIC💫 (@kinoshiitas) January 13, 2025
This isn’t the first time the company has faced criticism for its handling of Red Velvet’s business. Fans argue that such actions undermine the group’s success and visibility, especially when their efforts are recognized and celebrated by a wider audience. The controversy added to the growing list of complaints fans have voiced about the company’s treatment of Red Velvet over the years.