Bang Si Hyuk’s ‘Star Power’ Claim for Idols Sparks Mixed Reactions

Bang Si Hyuk’s recent comments on the importance of star power over skills have generated a significant buzz within the K-pop community. The remarks were made during the latest episode of Netflix’s “Popstar Academy,” a docu-series that chronicles the formation of the international girl group KASTSEYE.

Released on August 21, the series delves into KASTSEYE’s journey, from their initial casting to rigorous evaluations. The group is a collaborative brainchild of HYBE and Geffen Records, making HYBE chairman Bang Si Hyuk a key participant in the project.

During the show’s first episode, various label officials were seen assessing potential trainees. It was within this context that Bang Si Hyuk discussed the essential traits for idols, focusing particularly on the significance of star power.

Bang Si Hyuk challenged the common belief that skills are the most crucial aspect for an idol. He stated, “Usually, people believe that skill is the most important part. But for me, it’s star power.”

This perspective immediately sparked mixed reactions on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). A number of netizens expressed their frustration upon hearing the chairman’s viewpoint.

However, not all reactions were negative. Some internet users offered a different take on Bang Si Hyuk’s remarks, providing a broader context for his views and suggesting that star power is indeed a critical element for an idol’s success.

In a related development, Bang Si Hyuk also faced backlash for comments he made about the future of K-pop. On November 7, 2023, he discussed potential crises affecting K-pop’s global success and proposed that removing the ‘K’ from K-pop could facilitate its growth in the international music scene. This suggestion led to widespread outrage among fans, who argued that eliminating the ‘K’ would strip the genre of its unique identity and cultural significance.

Overall, Bang Si Hyuk’s insights have ignited a broader conversation about what truly makes a K-pop idol succeed. While his focus on star power has been contentious, it undeniably highlights a critical element in the complex world of entertainment.

What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments below!

Source: KpopStarz