“I felt disturbed and hurt today.” That was the only cryptic message TXT’s leader Soobin posted on social media hours after a viral incident in China sparked heated public debate.
While on a private trip, Soobin was unexpectedly surrounded by a group of fans at a building in China, despite the presence of his security team. Struggling to reach an elevator, the idol appeared visibly distressed as fans continued to crowd him. But the situation escalated dramatically when one fan threw her phone into the elevator, hitting or nearly grazing him.
In response, Soobin picked up the phone and tossed it back — decisively. When a second phone flew into the elevator moments later, his reaction was less restrained: he threw it forcefully back toward the crowd.
“Soobin was pelted with two phones, and his reactions — especially the second one — showed his visible frustration,” fans noted, some empathizing with his right to privacy while others questioned his conduct.
Divided Reactions Online
The incident quickly ignited controversy on platforms like Weibo and Twitter. One camp criticized the idol for reacting aggressively, warning of potential injuries and accusing him of not appreciating fan support. Others, however, defended his reaction, pointing out the blatant disregard for his personal space during a private moment.
“He’s a human being first, an idol second,” wrote one netizen. “Fans crossing boundaries like this is why burnout is so common.”
The incident followed another chaotic scene just a day prior at Busan station, where hundreds of overzealous fans created a stampede-like situation while chasing Soobin. The videos from both events underscore the ongoing issue of sasaeng (obsessive fan) behavior in the K-pop industry.
Who Is Soobin?
Born in 2000, Choi Soo Bin is the leader of Tomorrow X Together (TXT), the flagship boy group under HYBE after BTS. Known for his calm demeanor, soft visuals, and leadership skills, Soobin also made a mark as a former Music Bank MC alongside Oh My Girl’s Arin.
In November 2024, Big Hit Music announced that Soobin would take a break from activities due to health concerns, worrying fans worldwide.
Under Soobin’s leadership, TXT has delivered multiple hits, including Blue Hour, 0X1=LOVESONG (I Know I Love You), Sugar Rush Ride, and Chasing That Feeling. These successes have cemented his reputation as an ideal leader in K-pop’s fourth generation.
Final Thoughts
While Soobin’s actions may have shocked some, they have also opened up necessary conversations about the limits of idol worship and the importance of respecting personal boundaries. As K-pop’s global reach grows, so too must the maturity of its fan culture.
Whether seen as a moment of lost temper or justified self-defense, the incident highlights a growing tension between public personas and private lives — a delicate balance Soobin now finds himself at the center of.
Sources: Kenh14,Weibo,HYBE,Music Bank,MyDramaList
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