The Boyz’s New is under fire for displaying a lack of effort in providing fan service.
The Boyz recently held a video call event for fans who purchased their second Japanese album ‘Delicious.’ The lucky fans were given the opportunity to have a 15-second video call with the members.
During the video call event, New refused a request from a Japanese fan. The fan asked New, “Please show me your aegyo (act cute).” However, New shook his head and firmly replied, “No.” Despite the fan’s repeated request, New maintained his firm stance until the end of the video call.
The video of New’s conversation with the Japanese fan quickly spread through social media and various online communities.
Netizens expressed disappointment in New’s lack of effort in providing fan service. The dominant opinion was that it was obvious he should have engaged in a proper conversation with the fan, even if it meant acting cute for a short time.
Of course, it is not mandatory to show aegyo, as there is no rule dictating it. However, this is not the first time New has faced criticism for his attitude towards fans.
In an interview with a magazine in January of last year, New was asked about the secret to The Boyz’s growth. He responded, “I think 100% of it is our effort. I’m not just saying it. We have put in a lot of effort.“
When Joo Hak Nyeon answered, “‘99% of our success is thanks to our fans. The remaining 1% is our effort,” New contradicted him and bluntly said, “I have a slightly different opinion.” New’s honest interview made the fans upset.
Not only that, but New also faced backlash for past behavior toward women on social media and for seemingly ignoring his fellow members during a Live broadcast.
The Boyz’s DC Inside gallery, especially angered by New’s inappropriate behavior, published a “Demand for New’s Departure from The Boyz” notice, criticizing him and stating, “Due to this issue, fans are being restricted from joining the fandom of The Boyz, and existing fans are feeling disappointed and leaving. Comments like ‘misogynist idol’ are being posted towards unrelated members.”
In response, The Boyz’s agency stated, “We will carefully examine the criticism from fans, not just limiting it to a one-time apology. We will seek ways to fill the gaps and improve. We will pay full attention and do our best to ensure that such incidents do not happen again.”
Source: Nate
