The K-pop girl group IVE has become the target of online sexual harassment, after a fancam video capturing their live performance went viral on YouTube.
The clip, filmed from an angle behind the stage, contained several moments some viewers described as “sensitive.” Within hours, the video accumulated hundreds of thousands of views, and screenshots of certain frames began spreading across social media platforms.
What followed was a wave of sexually explicit and inappropriate comments directed at the members — especially toward Leeseo, who is still a minor.
Outraged Korean netizens condemned the behavior, calling it a form of sexual harassment.
- Leaving such comments is harassment, plain and simple.
- It’s horrifying to see adults talk this way about a teenage girl.
- Leeseo is underage — this is sexual exploitation.
The controversy has sparked widespread debate about the sexualization of underage idols and the lack of regulation surrounding fan-recorded videos at K-pop events.
IVE is a six-member girl group under Starship Entertainment, which debuted in December 2021 with the hit single “ELEVEN.” The group consists of An Yujin, Gaeul, Rei, Jang Wonyoung, Liz, and Leeseo (born in 2007).
Since debuting, IVE has become one of the leading fourth-generation K-pop girl groups, known for their elegant visuals, confidence, and powerful performances. Their chart-topping tracks — “LOVE DIVE,” “After LIKE,” and “I AM” — have cemented their reputation both domestically and internationally.
However, with fame has come increased scrutiny and privacy concerns. This latest incident has reignited discussions within the K-pop community about ethical fan behavior, idol protection, and the industry’s responsibility to safeguard its youngest artists.
“The issue isn’t fandom, it’s consent. Filming and sharing clips without care for an artist’s dignity is exploitation,” one netizen commented.
Starship Entertainment has yet to issue an official statement regarding the video or the ongoing online harassment.
Sources: Znews
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