A topic that stirred controversy last year has resurfaced, with fresh images and details related to the issue being shared among online users.
Back on August 1, 2024, followers of the NewJeans fan base, known as Bunnies, gained attention by sending numerous funeral wreaths to the HYBE building. The wreath display was intended as a form of protest to express their backing for former CEO Min Hee Jin. However, the timing of this protest coincided with the planned birthday festivities for LE SSERAFIM's Chaewon. Fans had arranged for a commemorative birthday bus to be stationed outside the HYBE building for the idol's celebration. The clash of these two events sparked controversy, especially when the funeral wreaths were placed right in front of Chaewon's birthday bus to obscure it.
Subsequently, Chaewon's official fan group issued a statement addressing the situation. The group mentioned that they had attempted to communicate with the NewJeans fan base in advance, requesting a rescheduling of their protest or relocation of the wreaths. They clarified that their concern was not with the protest itself but with the placement of funeral wreaths on Chaewon's special day. Additionally, Chaewon's fans offered to cover any charges incurred if the wreaths' delivery date was changed. Nonetheless, the NewJeans followers declined the proposal, citing difficulties in making adjustments.
The revelation that Chaewon's fans had offered to cover any costs if the protest was rescheduled by NewJeans, and their refusal to do so resulting in the wreaths being placed near Chaewon's birthday bus, has reignited discussions among online users, despite the incident occurring a year ago. Comments from netizens have stirred reactions, questioning the actions of both fan bases and expressing disappointment in their behavior.
Others raised concerns about the handling of the situation, reflecting on the responses and decisions made by the involved fandoms. The controversy seems to have left a lasting impression on netizens, with many revisiting the incident and sharing their thoughts on the matter.