Rookie group CHASER’s Ren embroiled in controversy over remarks on paid messaging app; agency CEO personally posts apology

[Financial News]  A rookie idol who unleashed a barrage of harsh remarks at a fan on a paid platform for communicating with artists ultimately caused a major uproar through his careless attitude. When Ren, a member of the group CHASER, came under fire for his inappropriate words and actions, the agency’s CEO stepped in personally to contain the backlash and soothe angry fans.
On the 12th, Go Yun-young, CEO of Howling Entertainment, CHASER’s agency, posted a lengthy apology on social media (SNS), saying, “I sincerely apologize to all the fans who were hurt and disappointed by Ren’s words and actions.”
The incident began when a conversation between Ren and a fan on a paid fan communication platform was recently leaked to an online community. After a fan sent Ren an affectionate message saying, “I’ve been waiting for you this whole time,” Ren emphasized that he had logged on just after finishing work, then lashed out in a fit of irritation, saying, “What do you want me to do? Why are you getting on my case? You keep annoying me.”
Fans immediately erupted in anger at the artist’s high-handed attitude in a paid communication space where fans’ affection and money are exchanged. As the controversy spread rapidly, the agency’s CEO had no choice but to step in personally to contain the fallout.
CEO Go bowed in apology, saying, “Our company also takes seriously the fact that an artist’s words and actions toward fans come with corresponding responsibility,” and, “I believe the company also fell short in its oversight and guidance regarding this incident.”
Go continued, “We regret disappointing the fans who trusted and supported Ren,” and promised, “We will take a closer look at artists’ words and actions and all aspects of their communication with fans, and do our utmost in training and oversight to ensure this does not happen again.” Go also reiterated the apology, saying, “We will not let this remain an apology in words alone; we will work to regain your trust through our actions going forward.”
CHASER, at the center of the controversy, is a five-member boy group that made its debut in the music industry last February with the release of its first mini-album, “ROUTE 01: BURNING POINT.” As the rookie group faces the most painful setback—a “character controversy”—less than a year after debut, the music industry is watching to see whether it can win back the trust of fans who have turned away.
[email protected] Jeon Sang-il Reporter