Controversy is mounting in China following comments made by Jang Won-young, a member of the K-pop group IVE, after she referred to Hong Kong as one of the “countries” she likes. The remark was made during a behind-the-scenes video that appeared on IVE’s official YouTube channel. The video showed the group visiting Hong Kong for an awards ceremony, during which Jang commented, “We should eat a delicious dinner,” and added, “I like Hong Kong. There is a lot of good food. Hong Kong is one of the countries I like.”
Jang’s comment quickly ignited a firestorm on Chinese social media, where users protested her reference to Hong Kong as a “country.” Under China’s One China principle, Hong Kong is considered a special administrative region, not a separate country. The phrasing, seen as contradicting this stance, has fueled online criticism and calls for a boycott of IVE-related content.
Social Media Outcry and Boycott Calls
On Chinese social media platforms, hashtags such as “#JangWonyoungHongKongCountry,” “#IVEGetOutofChina,” and “#KoreanIdolsHistoryEducation” have gained traction. Some users are urging a boycott of the group’s content, reflecting growing frustration over perceived disrespect for China’s territorial claims.
Local media outlets have also amplified the controversy. Sina Entertainment described the comment as “a clear challenge to China’s territorial sovereignty and integrity.” Meanwhile, the Global Times criticized Korean idols for benefiting from Chinese fans’ support while allegedly failing to respect China’s sovereignty, highlighting a lack of political sensitivity despite the importance of the Chinese market.
Video Pulled Amid Ongoing Backlash
In response to the uproar, the video has been made private, yet the backlash persists. The incident has sparked discussions about how public sentiment in China will evolve and whether it could impact IVE’s future engagements in the region.
Historical Context and Sensitivities
The incident underscores the delicate nature of geopolitical sensitivities in the region. Hong Kong, a former British colony, was returned to China in 1997 under a “one country, two systems” framework, granting it a degree of autonomy. However, tensions have persisted over the years, particularly following pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, which have heightened scrutiny over how international figures address the region.
“A clear challenge to China’s territorial sovereignty and integrity,” said Sina Entertainment.
Expert Opinions and Cultural Implications
Experts suggest that the incident reflects broader cultural and political tensions. Dr. Li Ming, a professor of international relations at Beijing University, noted, “This is not just about a single comment. It reflects ongoing sensitivities surrounding national identity and sovereignty in China.”
Meanwhile, K-pop analysts argue that such incidents highlight the challenges faced by international artists navigating complex geopolitical landscapes. “K-pop idols are often seen as cultural ambassadors, and their words carry weight,” explained Kim Ji-hoon, a South Korean cultural critic. “They must be acutely aware of the political implications of their statements, especially in markets as significant as China.”
Implications for K-Pop and Global Markets
The controversy may have broader implications for the K-pop industry, which has increasingly relied on international markets for growth. China, with its vast fanbase, represents a lucrative market for K-pop groups, but incidents like this could strain relations and impact commercial opportunities.
As the situation unfolds, industry observers will be watching closely to see how IVE and their management respond to the backlash. The incident serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between entertainment, politics, and international relations in today’s interconnected world.
Moving forward, it remains to be seen whether Jang Won-young or her management will issue a formal statement addressing the controversy. For now, the focus is on how this incident will affect IVE’s standing in China and whether it will prompt other K-pop artists to tread more carefully in politically sensitive regions.
