Super Junior’s Choi Siwon recently tried to clarify his tribute to Charlie Kirk after fans criticized him heavily. He posted on the fan platform Bubble on September 12, saying he paid tribute because Kirk was a Christian, a father, and a husband.
He said it was sad that Kirk lost his life to gun violence while speaking to many college students. Siwon added that he did not intend a political message, but one of sympathy.
The tribute stirred strong reactions because Charlie Kirk was not a neutral figure. Kirk founded the conservative group Turning Point USA and was known for controversial remarks tied to race, gender, and politics.
Many netizens felt that by calling him a “good and faithful servant” and posting religious and memorial content, Siwon was endorsing those views.
Netizens also pointed out a pattern in Siwon’s past. Previous controversies included his liking of a post opposing Hong Kong pro-democracy protests and content opposing same-sex marriage.
Critics say these actions raise questions about whether his beliefs align with conservative or religious perspectives in ways that conflict with what global fans expect from K-pop idols.
Netizen Responses to Choi Siwon
Here are some of the reactions from Korean netizens:
- Some said they would understand if Siwon had mourned all victims of gun violence, not only Kirk. They felt that selective mourning sends a message.
- Others questioned the sincerity of Siwon’s explanation, wondering why he had not posted similar tributes for non-Christian or non-politically controversial victims.
- There were comments about religion being used to justify or mask political alignment. Some netizens wrote that calling someone a “faithful servant” in religious terms can imply ideology, primarily when that person is known for political activism.
- A few told Siwon to stay quiet rather than issue explanations. Others thought his statement just made things more confusing.
Fan Demands and Group Reputation
Because the backlash has grown louder, some fans are asking that Siwon leave Super Junior. Hashtags like #SIWON_OUT are appearing as symbols of dissatisfaction.
Fans argue that public figures in K-pop have a responsibility. They say global fandoms expect neutrality, especially when it comes to politics or commentary with a religious tint. When idols take public stands, real or perceived, they risk alienating parts of their fanbase.
Why Did Siwon’s Actions Become a Bigger Issue?
This situation matters because K-pop entertainers now operate globally. Their statements travel fast. Any tribute or post can be interpreted in many ways depending on the cultural or political context.
Siwon’s faith is clearly part of his identity. That gives him the right to express personal beliefs. But when those expressions touch on politically charged figures, it becomes more complex. Fans often read these as statements beyond personal sympathy. That is especially true when the person honored has expressed contentious views themselves.
Additionally, deleting the post and then explaining can sometimes exacerbate the situation. It can look like reactive damage control. Some fans might trust more if the message were consistent from the start.
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