UPDATE: SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu is at the center of a heated debate following his actions during a concert in Austin, Texas, on October 22, 2025. The incident occurred when a fan displayed a sign requesting the idol take a shot of alcohol with them, which he did after acknowledging the request. This has ignited intense criticism and discussions about concert etiquette and perceived favoritism towards Western fans.
During the concert, an overwhelmed fan tweeted, “the shot Mingyu took was in our section, I was speechless when I saw him drink it.” Many fans expressed concern over the potential implications of such actions, questioning the safety and appropriateness of the moment.
The controversy has further fueled accusations of Western favoritism by SEVENTEEN and their management, Pledis Entertainment. Fans from Southeast Asia have pointed out that during previous concert tours, they faced stricter regulations, including notices about fan behavior and gift acceptance. One fan stated, “it feels like they are chasing Western validation, honestly it comes across as low-key racist toward SEA fans.”
Critics have noted that before the SEA leg of the Right Here World Tour, Pledis released a fan etiquette notice that reiterated rules about stalking and gift-giving. This notice was perceived by many as a targeted message, especially after incidents during the Japan concerts earlier this year.
Despite the backlash, some fans defended SEVENTEEN, referencing past instances where they accepted gifts and engaged with fans in similar ways in other countries. One user claimed that SEVENTEEN had not toured extensively in Western countries until recently, questioning the validity of the accusations against them.
As discussions continue, many fans are split on the issue. Some argue that the differing experiences of fans in various regions highlight a troubling pattern, while others believe these claims are exaggerated. The ongoing dialogue underscores the cultural complexities within the global K-Pop phenomenon.
Authorities and fan communities are closely monitoring the situation. It remains to be seen how SEVENTEEN and Pledis will address the backlash and whether any changes in concert policies will be implemented in response to the criticism.
This incident aligns with a broader conversation about the treatment of fans across different regions, particularly in the context of K-Pop’s expanding global reach. As the debate unfolds, fans are eager for a response from both SEVENTEEN and their management.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as it continues to capture the attention of fans worldwide.
