A terrorist threat targeting the popular girl group NewJeans has surfaced, causing growing concern among fans.
On June 24, a post titled "Bought it to use at the NewJeans concert" began circulating on online communities. The author, identified as 'A,' posted a photo of a knife along with a brief message saying, "I'll be waiting to use it as they get off the van."
Although the photo appears to be a copied image of a Japanese knife sold on an e-commerce site, it remains unclear whether there is a genuine intent to commit a crime. The police have received the post and are attempting to track down the author. They also plan to enhance security measures to ensure NewJeans' safety.
Knife threat posts targeting celebrities have been steadily appearing since last year. In August of last year, a knife threat post directed at HYBE, the agency that manages NewJeans, led to a police search.
That same month, another post threatened murder and terroristic against aespa's Winter. The author specified the exact timing of Winter's departure, leading the police to deploy around ten security personnel at Incheon Airport. The airport also employed special security agents.
NewJeans is actively promoting their debut single, "Supernatural," which was released in Japan on June 21st. They are planning a fan meeting titled 'Bunnies Camp 2024 Tokyo Dome' on June 26 and 27 at the Tokyo Dome.
The group is facing a terroristic threat during a time of increased public anxiety caused by recent "abnormal motive crimes," including last year's knife attacks at Sillim Station and Seohyeon Station.
In response, the government and local authorities are taking steps to improve safety. The National Police Agency has added special forces in Ulsan, Gangwon, and Chungbuk, supplementing the 15 existing special units nationwide.
Gyeonggi Province has led the way in local government response by passing an ordinance for the "Prevention of Abnormal Motive Crimes and Support for Victims." This includes a new reporting system and establishing support centers for victims. Similar measures are being adopted in eight other regions, including Seoul, Geumcheon District, Seongnam, Gwangmyeong, Bucheon, Seo District in Gwangju, Gyeongbuk Province, and Sejong City.
SEE ALSO: "What blacklist for 'NewJeans'?" K-netizens say the members are doing just fine
What is going on with the world now that they are targeting kids.
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