BTS members V and Jungkook call out obsessive fans for privacy invasion
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- BTS members V and Jungkook addressed privacy violations by obsessive fans, known as 'sasaengs'.
- The idols shared their experiences during a live broadcast while on tour in the United States.
- They expressed distress over fans encroaching on their personal lives, including visits to their hotel gym.
K-pop superstars BTS members V and Jungkook have spoken out against the invasive behavior of obsessive fans, commonly known as 'sasaengs,' who have been infringing on their privacy.
During a recent live broadcast from their U.S. tour, V candidly shared his struggles with hearing loss, revealing that he has experienced difficulties for about two and a half years. He confided in fans, known as ARMY, that he hadn't previously disclosed this issue. The conversation then shifted to the relentless pursuit by sasaeng fans.
I haven't told ARMY before, but my hearing has been bad for about 2 and a half years.
Jungkook specifically highlighted instances where fans tracked them to their hotel gym in the early morning hours. He expressed his discomfort and frustration, stating, "Even if you think you're helping us, if you do that, it's scary. It's a violation of our privacy." The idols emphasized that such actions, while perhaps intended by some fans as a sign of support, cross the line into harassment and create a frightening environment for the artists.
The members' statements underscore the ongoing challenges faced by globally famous artists who grapple with the extreme actions of a minority of fans, impacting their personal well-being and sense of security even while on tour.
Even if you think you're helping us, if you do that, it's scary. It's a violation of our privacy.
Originally published by Chosun Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.