A recent news article detailing aespa’s Giselle renting a high-end officetel in Cheongdam-dong, Seoul, has gone viral—but not for the right reasons. The coverage has prompted significant backlash from netizens, many of whom argue that the information violates the idol’s privacy and serves little public interest.

According to the original report, Giselle secured a mortgage with a maximum credit limit of ₩100 million KRW (approx. $71,900 USD) for a unit in the luxurious Pie n Polus officetel complex. The mortgage was reportedly taken out in lieu of a jeonse (lump-sum lease), with the monthly rent estimated to exceed ₩15 million KRW (approx. $10,678 USD).

The residence, recorded in the official real estate registry on January 21, includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Notably, former SM Entertainment founder Lee Soo-man is also known to have lived in the same building, adding to the unit’s high-profile reputation.

Despite the article’s factual basis, the response from the public has been overwhelmingly negative. On Korean community forums and social media platforms, many questioned the ethical implications of publishing such personal information—especially about a young female idol.

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  • Why would you reveal a celebrity’s residence like this?
  • This isn’t even news. It’s just about rent—what’s the point?
  • Have they ever published an article like this about a male idol?
  • Can’t believe this is being treated like a headline. It’s invasive.
  • Hope the reporter publishes their own address too.

Some also expressed concerns that exposing the home of a popular female idol could lead to safety issues, sasaeng behavior, or unwanted attention.

As of now, SM Entertainment has not responded to the article or the online backlash.

Sources: Koreaboo