In a recent live broadcast featuring NewJeans membersHanniand Minji, the K-pop stars discussed Hanni’s emotional appearance at a National Assembly Audit addressing workplace bullying. However, their conversation has stirred backlash online, as some viewers felt the tone of their remarks was inappropriate for such a serious subject.
Hanni and Minji Discuss Emotional Appearance
On October 18 (KST), the two idols went live to speak about their recent experiences, including Hanni’s participation at the National Assembly Audit. During the broadcast, Hanni reflected on her emotional reaction at the event, where she was seen crying while discussing workplace bullying.
In the live broadcast, the two members shared a candid conversation about the event. Minji mentioned watching Hanni’s speech later due to scheduling conflicts, commenting on the images of Hanni’s emotional moment.
It seems like these girls are feeling proud that NewJeans' Hanni "crushed it" with her performance at the National Assembly Audit… — Minji: The video you sent me was so, so cute. Hanni: I was making a lot of weird faces… and tears too, hahaha. Minji: A lot of people… pic.twitter.com/UlMmiV2fs0
Minji: Aw, I love the video that you sent me. That was very cute. Hanni: Oh, ha! Minji: Can I talk about it when we do behind-the-scenes? Hanni: Yeah, sure. Minji: Guys… Hanni: I was making a lot of weird faces… and tears, too. Hahaha. Minji: Well, a lot of people probably cried with you at that moment. Hanni: I’m only human, so… I can cry, too. When the tears started flowing… It was funny. I mean, I knew it would happen. It was bound to happen. But I definitely noticed the camera shutters going off a lot more once I started crying, haha. Minji: I only got to watch the beginning of your speech because I had a schedule to get to. So, as soon as I got done, I looked it up. And she was crying! There were tons of photos of her crying! Hanni: Who took those photos?! Let’s have a little chat, hahaha. Minji: I was like, “She cried?!” Hanni: Yeah, I couldn’t help but cry, lol. Minji: But in my heart, I was thinking, “That’s my girl! That’s my girl!” It looks like they’re saying they all cried, too.
Backlash from Netizens
The live broadcast sparked mixed reactions online. While some fans appreciated the members’ candidness and light-hearted tone, many netizens were upset by how the event was discussed, especially given the nature of the topic—workplace bullying, which affects countless individuals. Critics argued that the idols seemed to treat the appearance as more of a “performance” than a significant event meant to raise awareness about a serious issue.
One online user commented:
Basically admitting that the entire drama with the govt was pre planned, staged and those shamanic 🧙♀️ taught tears were for public sympathy! Well, it did backfire and it will ruin them even more.
If your friend said she cried and was crying because of traumatic experience why would you tell her GOOD JOB GO GIRL type of response?!!! Wouldn't she supposed to comfort her?! Why they acting like the audit was a show to gain sympathy (it was) but like why they admitting this 😭 https://t.co/ovD3EFMv3l
Why is she acting like she just went there to tour the building?? She was there for a serious allegation about bullying and they are LAUGHING at how much the camera shutters went off while she was crying? She shouldnt even be talking about this on a fan live. https://t.co/zycKJ9VuJz
“This isn’t a joke. Workplace bullying is something many people suffer from. It’s disappointing to hear them laugh about it.”
Another expressed their frustration, writing:
“They acted like it was a funny or cute moment when it’s about something that deeply impacts people’s lives. Not everything is content.”
Some users pointed out that this wasn’t the first time a topic linked to Hanni’s public appearance drew criticism. Past discussions about her public roles and comments have also sparked controversy, with viewers feeling her approach to sensitive topics may come across as tone-deaf.
As the conversation surrounding the live broadcast continues to evolve, it serves as a reminder of the weight public figures carry when discussing sensitive topics, especially on platforms as wide-reaching as a live broadcast. Fans and critics alike are closely watching how the situation unfolds, with many hoping for a more serious approach in future discussions.
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