Concerns grow over invasive security practices at K-pop fan events

Red Velvet's Irene faces controversy amid solo debut promotions

By Pyo Kyung-min

Allegations of excessive security checks at K-pop fan events have highlighted a broader issue of privacy and respect in the industry.

Recent claims from a fan event promoting Red Velvet member Irene's solo debut have ignited a wave of criticism toward the invasive practices employed during such K-pop events.

The accusations surfaced Monday when a social media user shared a friend's account of alleged inappropriate behavior by security personnel at the event on Saturday. "I've experienced dehumanizing treatment at fan signings before, but this incident truly terrified me," the user wrote.

According to the post, the fan was subjected to a physical inspection before stepping onstage for the singer's autograph. The user claimed the inspection included unreasonable demands, such as "rolling up sleeves past the elbows to check for hidden devices, jumping in place and even more physical contact."

"They said the checks were to confirm there were no devices, but the demands felt excessive," the user alleged. "As fans, we're in a submissive position. Refusing these requests could mean being asked to leave, and I wonder how many fans could say no."

The user clarified that while the security guard did not directly touch the fan's chest, they allegedly touched areas below the collarbone and above the bra.

"Why are such invasive procedures necessary just to speak briefly with an artist?" the post continued. "It reminded me of when I was treated like a potential threat at another fan signing event. It's demeaning."

The writer further criticized the broader culture of K-pop fan events.

"We’ve often dismissed bizarre and unreasonable rules at these events, but it feels like these unjust regulations are getting worse," the user wrote. "I understand these measures may stem from past incidents, but why must innocent fans suffer? Fans spend significant amounts of money to attend, yet can't even bring simple notes to share what they want to say."

Expressing fear over future incidents, the user added, "This time it was my friend, but I'm scared it might happen to me next. At a previous event, a security guard subtly glanced at my chest. Even though we were the same gender, it made me uncomfortable."

The user clarified that the security personnel involved in Saturday's incident were women and asked others not to spread misinformation. "Even if it's a woman, it’s still an unpleasant experience," the person said.

This is not the first time fans have raised concerns about invasive security measures at K-pop fan events. These measures sometimes include unnecessary physical contact and rigorous checks, questioning the balance between safety and personal dignity.

In July 2023, fans of HYBE Labels' Japanese boy group &TEAM reported similar incidents, alleging inappropriate physical checks, including undergarment inspections.

"They claimed they were checking for smartwatches and asked to touch my chest, then they pulled me aside and asked me to lift my clothes," a fan recounted through an online post. "Someone walked in during the inspection and saw my undergarments. It was humiliating and left me feeling stripped of my dignity."

Many fans voiced outrage at the time, including comments like "We paid money only to be humiliated," "(The agencies) treat fans like wallets and potential criminals" and "Their narrow-minded reliance on same-gender staff for undergarment checks doesn't make it acceptable," dominating social media.

The event organizers later apologized in a statement, saying, "Regardless of security concerns, such actions should not have caused discomfort to fans ... We sincerely apologize for what occurred on-site and will implement noninvasive security measures to ensure fans can enjoy events in a comfortable atmosphere."