Cancel Culture: Its Prevalence in the K-Industry

Korean Industry or K-Industry plays a big part in the South Korean culture involving the music and
entertainment scenes. Since the early 2000’s, the K-industry has evolved, everything was great and
harmonious, everyone has been getting along really well. As years passed by, Korean entertainment like K-
pop, K-dramas, variety and survival shows had been popular nationwide, even gaining attention in the
international ground. K-celebrities are beginning to increase a following that continuously develop as more
and more projects are pitched to them.

But just like any other industry, the bright side is always accompanied by its complete opposite, even
darker as it may seem. As the lurking shadow begins to progress, the so-called cancel culture emerges. The
journey of these stars flourishes together with the avid supporters, even during their trainee days until their
debut and eventual popularity and success. But why do the same people trigger cancel culture and attempt to
eliminate these celebrities and enjoy their imminent downfall?

Cancel culture is the prevailing practice in the K-industry wherein they have the inclination of engaging
mass cancellation as a way of expressing condemnation, further employing social pressure to the involved
party. Generally, it is the mass withdrawal of support from public figures and celebrities who have done things
that are socially unacceptable. Cancellation may be as simple as boycotting a celebrity’s film, shows, and
endorsements or even refusing to promote their projects. Mockery, invalidation, and sometimes trashing is
experienced by cancelled stars. Rising K-pop idols Hyuna and E-dawn, who have been secretly dating for a long
time, were victims of this disapproval. During the onset of their careers and subsequent fame, fans have
already been suspicious of their relationship. And upon the confirmation of their association, their own
company retracted their contracts. Netizens, particularly bashers, openly expressed their disappointment and
resentment.

Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha actor Kim Seon Ho was also a victim of this phenomena. On the peak of his
popularity, he was embroiled in a controversy after his ex-girlfriend falsely accused him of forceful abortion in
an anonymous post. After the worldwide spread of this news, the drama industry, even his own agency ousted
him, his projects and endorsements were rejected and he was removed from his shows.

The shadow of this cancellation fueled by baseless and false accusations, as well as damaging backward
ideologies directly affect the mental health of most K-celebrities enabling depression and suicide. Stars like
Sulli and Goo Ha Ra, among others killed themselves due to the pressure experienced in this industry.
Dissolution must be stopped, and this must be stopped now! South Koreans must open their minds with
reality and embrace the flow of the 21st century. Acceptance must be exercised, and unconditional support
must be employed to encourage K-celebrities to further hone their craft and continuously love the industry
that they are trying to develop.

With these, limitations must be set; supporters and agencies must know and respect boundaries. The
privacy of these k-celebrities must always be honored. Let us always keep in mind that like any other people,
nobody is perfect. We must learn to accept all their flaws and imperfections. Cancellation must not be
normalized; it must not be an option at all.