Seventeen's Seungkwan is currently facing backlash from Suga's overseas fans due to a misunderstanding.
The situation began when Seungkwan, who is currently a model for Cass beer, posted a promotional message for Cass, along with a required disclaimer. Seungkwan posted several photos at the beach holding the Cass Light beer with the message, "Is everyone enjoying the Olympics together? Let's cheer on the South Korean athletes until the very end! 💪 Let's create a support video for our South Korean athletes 💙Check out the profile link at @official.cass! #Ad #Cass #Olympics #CheerUp"
Seungkwan also added the comment warning, "Warning: Excessive drinking can cause stroke, memory impairment, or dementia. Drinking during pregnancy increases the risk of birth defects. Whatever it is, do it in moderation," which is required when promoting alcoholic beverages.
However, this led to an influx of Suga's overseas fandom, who flooded the comments on his Instagram post with criticism, because they believed that Seunghan's message was a diss to BTS's SUGA.
The fans are upset because they believe Seungkwan was trying to present a “good image” by promoting alcohol, despite the controversy surrounding SUGA and his DUI. Furthermore, some fans speculate that the product Seungkwan was holding in the photo—Cass Zero Sugar—was a jab at SUGA (due to the word “sugar” in the product name), though this seems far-fetched.
The situation escalated as they not only criticized Seungkwan but also made derogatory remarks about his close friend, the late Moon Bin. Due to the overwhelming negativity, many fans who found the comments too difficult to read had the part about Moon Bin removed from their posts.
What’s more, Seungkwan had previously pinned a tribute post for Moon Bin on his feed, with his profile picture set to an image of Moon Bin. However, due to the harsh comments referencing the deceased and the criticism directed at Seungkwan, he has since unpinned the post.
Korean netizens commented:
"Don't they know that they're supposed to include a warning message? What's wrong with them?"
"Seriously, what's wrong with them? Leave Seungkwan alone."
"Why is the overseas fandom so unreasonable and disgusting?"
"Isn't it ridiculous to attack someone promoting safe alcohol drinking habits instead of going after those who drive drunk? Are they idiots?"
"Oh, so the foreign fans think it's mocking because it's Zero Sugar? This is just... wow. Suga, your guilt is really big here. And those foreign fans are seriously pathetic."
"What's wrong with them? Seriously, it's only because it's SEVENTEEN that there's any defense; if it were another idol, they wouldn't even be able to defend themselves... They're like bullies, what is this?"
"Wow."
"This is crossing the line."
"I can't believe they're attacking Moon Bin too."
"These fans are crazy."
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