Singer-songwriter Sung Si-kyung has sparked concern among K-pop fans after sharing a firsthand account of seeing members of aespa surrounded by a large group of sasaeng fans at an airport.
The revelation came during a recent episode on Sung Si-kyung’s YouTube channel, uploaded on June 1 under the title, “From Idol Singer to Musical Acting Award Winner.” The video featured a candid conversation with singer and musical actor Kim Junsu.
During the discussion, Kim Junsu reflected on the extreme sasaeng fan harassment he experienced during his days as a member of TVXQ.
In response, Sung Si-kyung recalled a recent flight he shared with aespa.
“aespa must be having a really difficult time. Sasaeng fans were on the same flight and came out with them,” he said.
According to the singer, after passengers completed immigration procedures, approximately 30 individuals were already waiting outside and immediately gathered around the group.
“When the members came out, they looked completely drained, like their souls had left their bodies,” he added, expressing sympathy for the group.
Sung Si-kyung also questioned whether enough protection was available for the members in that situation.
He pointed out that it would be difficult for a manager to simultaneously protect all four members from a crowd of aggressive followers.
“A manager can’t realistically take care of all four members at once. I kept thinking that someone has to stop this,” he remarked.
His comments quickly resonated with fans online, many of whom have repeatedly called for stronger measures against invasive fan behavior at airports and public schedules.
After hearing Sung Si-kyung’s story, Kim Junsu responded with disappointment.
“So it’s still the same,” he said.
The singer explained that even today, idols continue to deal with sasaeng fans sitting near them or finding ways to invade their personal space.
His remarks highlighted a persistent issue that has followed the K-pop industry for decades despite increased awareness and security efforts.
Sung Si-kyung strongly criticized those who cross personal boundaries in the name of fandom.
“People who destroy that distance aren’t fans,” he stated.
Kim Junsu then shared one of the most shocking experiences from his own career.
Recalling the height of TVXQ’s popularity, he revealed that he received a phone call immediately after activating a new mobile number.
“I was in the car on my way back to the dorm when my phone rang. When I answered, the person said, ‘You didn’t think I’d know your number, did you?’”
The memory remains vivid for the singer.
“At that moment, I felt completely broken,” he admitted.
The discussion has reignited debate surrounding sasaeng culture in K-pop, a phenomenon involving obsessive fans who track idols’ schedules, invade their privacy, and sometimes engage in stalking behavior.
Many fans have expressed concern over reports that artists continue to face similar situations despite years of public criticism and industry warnings.
For aespa, the incident serves as another reminder of the challenges that come with global fame, while Sung Si-kyung and Kim Junsu’s candid comments have once again drawn attention to the need for stronger protections for artists.
Sources: Netizenbuzz
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