K-pop group IVE’s REI shuts down haters.
The Japanese member of the sextet responds to haters on the fan-based communication app BUBBLE. The subscription based app lets fans and idols send private, SMS-style messages, photos, and videos directly to fans
Rei Naoi, who is better known by her mononym, took to the app and expressed,
“Please don’t send upsetting messages on Bubble! Why did you pay to come and say upsetting things? Use that money to eat something delicious!”
Internet reacts to REI’s comments
The internet users were torn between agreeing with her and raising a conversation about how the internet treats K-pop idols and has unfathomable expectations from them, hoping to see them more as humans.
One KPOP fan commented,
“That’s Literally what chan and other jyp artist are saying since months! Honestly Who antis even care of what idols say or do? Just go listen to your favs and shut up! Gland that idols are getting up for themself”
Another stated,
“that’s such a good way to put it, using the money on something nice instead of hate. rei’s got the right attitude”
While one fan questioned,
“Why would anyone hate on Rei or IVE? How miserable does your life have to be for you to do that?”
However, another side of the internet expressed that big or small, idols need to be held accountable and had a more hateful approach to their comments.
One user boldly stated,
“No No No…say them‼️‼️‼️. Let her know we hate her. Ohhh I wish I was there to tell her what’s on my mind”
Another joked,
“Well she’s right, who pays to give hate messages? I call Jennie a flop here for free”
K-pop idols are often under a lot of stress and pressure, not just from their agencies but from fandoms as well. Not only that, but the young stars are also compared to other idols as well as their own group members. A month ago, REI also received hate for her dancing skills as the 22-year-old, according to the netizens, couldn’t keep up with the other members of IVE in their new comeback teaser.
Edited by Sohini Biswas