From Huh Yunjin to Felix, Idols Stir Up Controversy by Drinking Cola and Coffee
Multiple K-pop idols have been facing criticism from international fans for what they eat and drink
On March 17th, during a live broadcast, Stray Kids’ Felix had a chicken mukbang, and when asked what beverage he was drinking, he showed the Coca-Cola logo.
Afterwards, when international fans criticized his consumption of Coca-Cola and demanded an apology, he apologized, saying, “I apologize for showing the Coca-Cola bottle. It was not my intention to upset anyone. I will not do that in the next mukbang. I’m really sorry.”
The reason he received criticism is related to the recent Israel-Palestine conflict. Countries declaring solidarity with Palestine are boycotting brands with pro-Israel tendencies.
Among them, Coca-Cola has been stamped as a pro-Israel company. Moreover, it has faced criticism for continuing operations in Russia despite the invasion of Ukraine.
Recently, Felix is not the first idol to be forced to apologize or face criticism simply for using products of foreign brands.
LE SSERAFIM’s Huh Yunjin also faced criticism for consuming Starbucks. Starbucks is being boycotted because it is considered a Jewish-related company and accused of supporting Israel. Huh Yunjin received hate comments for showing the Starbucks logo on social media.
BLACKPINK’s Jisoo also faced backlash for unveiling a tumbler made in collaboration with Starbucks. Jeon Somi received criticism for posting a video of herself drinking from a Starbucks tumbler and later deleting it.
ENHYPEN’s Jake also received criticism and apologized for drinking coffee from a Starbucks disposable cup during a live broadcast.
As the size of K-pop idols’ international fandoms continues to grow, their voices cannot be ignored. However, interference in the private lives of celebrities is leading to increasing conflicts between Korean and international fans.
Source: daum
