K-Pop idols often have to stay at hotels during their international schedules, and they definitely deserve a restful night after their exhausting work. Unfortunately, some overly enthusiastic fans, known as sasaeng fans, have crossed the line and invaded their privacy in these hotels. Here are six instances where male K-Pop idols faced such uncomfortable situations. Let’s take a look!
1. Lay from EXO
In 2016, Lay faced a distressing situation when two female fans faked their identities to get into the hotel where he was staying. The disturbance was so severe that the police were called, and it continued until four in the morning. This incident happened just ten days after another group of fans tried to harass him on the set of his drama.
Lay’s representatives emphasized the importance of the artist’s safety and personal life. They warned that if such incidents happened again, they would gather photographic evidence and report it to the authorities to take legal action.
2. Jaehyun from NCT
In 2023, a fan intruded into Jaehyun’s hotel room and shared videos and photos of the room’s contents on social media. This privacy violation occurred while NCT was on tour in the United States in October 2022.
SM Entertainment responded by collecting information about the perpetrator and those who redistributed the video. They demanded a thorough investigation involving law enforcement and law firms, as this behavior severely disturbed the artist’s privacy.
3. BTS
BTS has experienced numerous privacy invasions from sasaeng fans. To protect themselves, they often rent all the rooms on the floor where they stay while on tour. Despite the extra expense, it ensures their comfort and safety.
There have been cases where fans disguised themselves to get close to the members, even dressing as men to enter bathrooms. These intrusions led BTS to change hotels to avoid harassment. The band’s commitment to protecting their privacy is evident, and they don’t hesitate to take necessary actions.
4. SEVENTEEN
Pledis Entertainment issued a warning about privacy violations against SEVENTEEN in 2022. Some fans entered the artists’ private spaces, including hotels and hair salons, especially during tours.
The agency promised to take legal action using evidence from CCTV footage and staff reports. They are committed to protecting the members’ privacy and mental well-being by taking strong measures against any illegal actions.
5. Kuanlin, Formerly of Wanna One
In 2019, Kuanlin expressed his discomfort on Weibo due to fans who invaded his privacy. Despite having a good day at work, he couldn’t rest because fans were harassing him at various locations. He had to switch hotels to feel safe.
Kuanlin warned fans to refrain from such actions and respect his personal life. His plea highlights the need for fans to exercise self-control and respect the boundaries of their idols.
6. ATEEZ
San from ATEEZ politely asked fans to stop violating the group’s privacy in 2022. He mentioned that some fans waited outside their hotel and followed them to various destinations, making them very uncomfortable.
San emphasized that respecting ATEEZ’s privacy is a way for fans to show their affection. He urged fans to refrain from illegal acts and consider the comfort of the people around the group as well.
Final Thoughts
It’s crucial for fans to respect the privacy of K-Pop idols and refrain from visiting their hotels or any private spaces. Such actions are highly disturbing for the idols and their management teams, who work hard to protect their artists from these invasions. Let’s show our support by respecting their boundaries and allowing them the rest they need to continue entertaining us.