“I felt upset and hurt today.” This was the only cryptic message from the TXT leader Soobin posted on social media just hours after a viral incident in China sparked heated public debate.
During a private trip, Soobin was unexpectedly surrounded by a group of fans in a building in China, despite the presence of his security team. Struggling to reach an elevator, the idol appeared visibly distressed as fans continued to flock to him. But the situation worsened dramatically when a fan threw the phone into the elevator, hitting or nearly injuring him.
In response, Soobin he took the phone and threw it back, decisively. When a second phone flew into the elevator moments later, his reaction was less subdued: He threw it forcefully toward the crowd.
“Soobin was hit with two phones and his reactions, especially the second one, showed his visible frustration,” fans noted, some sympathizing with his right to privacy while others question his conduct.
Split reactions online
The incident quickly sparked controversy on platforms such as Weibo and Twitter. One group criticized the idol for reacting aggressively, warning him of potential injuries and accusing him of not appreciating fan support. Others, however, defended his reaction, pointing out the blatant disregard for his personal space during a private moment.
“He is a human being first, an idol second” wrote one netizen. “Fans pushing boundaries like this is why burnout is so common.”
The incident followed another chaotic scene just a day earlier at Busan station, where hundreds of overzealous fans created a stampede-like situation as they chased Soobin. Videos from both events highlight the current problem of sasaeng (obsessive fan) behavior in the K-pop industry.
Who is Soobin?
Born in 2000, Choi Soo Bin is the leader of Tomorrow X Together (TXT)HYBE’s flagship group after BTS. Known for his calm demeanor, soft images and leadership skills, Soobin he also left his mark as an ex Music Bank MC together with Arin from Oh My Girl.
In November 2024, Big Hit Music announced that Soobin would be taking a break from activities due to health issues, worrying fans around the world.
Under Soobin’s leadership, TXT has achieved numerous successes, including Blue Hour, 0X1=LOVESONG (I Know I Love You), Sugar Rush Ride, AND Chasing that feeling. These successes have solidified his reputation as the ideal leader in the fourth generation of K-pop.
Final thoughts
While Soobin‘s actions may have shocked some, but they also sparked much-needed conversations about the limits of idol worship and the importance of respecting personal boundaries. As K-pop’s global reach grows, so does the maturity of its fan culture.
Whether seen as a moment of anger or justified self-defense, the incident highlights a growing tension between public figures and private life: a delicate balance Soobin now he finds himself at the center of.
Sources: Kenh14, Weibo, Hybe, Music Bank, MyDraMalist
