Following the unexpected withdrawal of Seunghan, a former member of the rookie boy group RIIZE, when it was previously announced that he would be returning to the group after a 10-month hiatus — fans and several K-pop stores have initiated a boycott of the group’s album sales. This decision comes as a response to SM Entertainment’s handling of Seunghan’s departure and the growing frustrations of fans about the situation.
The Controversy Surrounding Seunghan’s Exit
Seunghan, made headlines when he went on hiatus from the group shortly after their debut due to rumors that were circulating online including dating pre-debut and so on. Seunghan’s departure has not only affected the group’s fanbase but also raised questions about the company’s management and treatment of its idols. On October 11, 2024, it was announced that Seunghan would return to group activities beginning in November however less than 2 days on October 13, the decision was revoked and Seunghan made the decision to protect the group by leaving.
As news of Seunghan’s departure spread, fans voiced their dissatisfaction online, with hashtags trending across social media. Many believe Seunghan was unfairly removed or pressured into leaving due to backlash from certain fans. In extreme acts of protest, some sent 1,000 funeral wreaths to SM’s building, bearing messages like “RIIZE is 6” and urging Seunghan to leave, with even death threats emerging. Supporters of Seunghan viewed these actions as bullying and psychological warfare aimed at the 21-year-old. Fans against Seunghan’s withdrawal believe that removing him from the group shows that bullying tactics such as these in fact, work and show the agency’s lack of support and protection for their artists.
The Boycott Movement
Online fan communities have been organizing petitions and sharing guides on how to participate in the boycott. The movement encourages fans to refrain from purchasing physical albums, streaming the group’s music, or engaging in promotional activities that would benefit the group’s sales. The boycott also extends to merchandise and collaborations associated with RIIZE.
In response, K-pop stores internationally have taken notice. Some local shops, which are often the first point of contact for fans looking to purchase albums and merchandise, have announced that they will be pulling RIIZE’s albums from their shelves and online storefronts. Several stores released statements saying they stand in solidarity with the fans, acknowledging the impact of Seunghan’s departure on the group’s dynamics and on loyal fans who supported RIIZE from the beginning.
One talking point of those opposed to Seunghan being in the group is that they spend money on the group so their opinion matters. However international fans point out that they also spend a lot of money on their idols and if the group is going to be promoted globally, global fans’ opinions should matter equally.
Boycotting parameters Include but Not Limited to:
Unfollowing social media accounts such as X, Instagram, TikTok, unsubscribing on YouTubeNot streaming music on apps such as Spotify, Apple, Amazon, and YouTube MusicNot streaming music videosNo purchasing of official albums and merch
The Case of the Loona vs BlockBerry Boycott
One can not say that boycotting has no significant impact on achieving goals or making statements. In January 2023. Pre-order sales for the Loona album “O” had dropped by 98% which in turn made BlockBerry K-pop push back the release of the album.
International stores posted notices on social media and put signs up saying they would not be stocking up on official Loona albums and merch. The official Loona accounts dramatically dropped in followers. Eventually, the members engaged in legal battles with the company and were able to move to other companies and re-debut.
The collective action of fans and retailers could set a precedent for how future controversies are handled, both by entertainment companies and by the fans who support their idols.
What’s Next for RIIZE and Seunghan?
While Seunghan’s future in the entertainment industry remains uncertain, fans continue to speculate what’s next after his ultimate exit from the group. Some hope that Seunghan might return to the group, while others believe that he could pursue solo activities or join another agency altogether.
A few Stores Pulling RIIZE products:
Hello BRIIZE,
Please see our official notice for the discontinuing supply for RIIZE products.
We stand with BRIIZE and support keeping RIIZE as a group of 7 artists.
Feel free to reach out or comment any questions or notes. #riize #briize #kpop #kpopkastle pic.twitter.com/CuK46zRjKM
— Kpop Kastle (@KpopKastle) October 15, 2024
Announcement Regarding RIIZE Products pic.twitter.com/bepIKAFlgA
— SubK Shop (@subkshop) October 15, 2024
Hello, this is LIGHTUPK.
After careful consideration, LIGHTUPK has made the decision to halt RIIZE restocks for the time being.
This decision does NOT affect the current stock we have, nor does it affect any current pre-orders.
— LightUpK (@LightUpKShop) October 15, 2024
#RIIZE #RIIZE7 #SEUNGHAN pic.twitter.com/nn39fcistd
— Boutique Musica (@BoutiqueMusica) October 15, 2024
Announcement regarding RIIZE albums and merchandise at Eve Pink K-Pop pic.twitter.com/o2bTCa6xr1
— EVE PINK K-POP (@evepink_twt) October 15, 2024
Announcement about SEUNGHAN & RIIZE
Please read the message. We sincerely hope this will be the last time this happens to an idol because of malicious behavior from fans 😢#RiizeIs7 #RIIZE #RIIZE7 #protectseunghan pic.twitter.com/BRuJPVyCV2
— Hey!Hallyu (@HeyHallyu_) October 15, 2024
