THE BOYZmember Sunwoo and a staff member were assaulted by a stalker fan, leading to hospital treatment for both. The incident occurred on November 9, as Sunwoo returned to the group’s dorm after a schedule.
Details of the Incident
According to IST Entertainment, a stalker fan was hiding in the emergency stairs near the dorm. As Sunwoo exited the elevator and approached the dorm door, he noticed the individual and immediately contacted a staff member for help.
“On the 9th, THE BOYZ member Sunwoo was approached by a sasaeng hiding in the emergency staircase. This happened as he was getting out of the elevator and trying to open the door of his dorm. Feeling threatened by the sasaeng, Sunwoo immediately informed our staff, who, together with Sunwoo, apprehended the trespassing fan and handed them over to the police. In the process of detaining the sasaeng who tried to flee, Sunwoo was repeatedly assaulted. The individual was arrested on charges of trespassing and assault and is currently under police investigation,”
— IST Entertainment
The staff member who arrived to assist was also attacked while detaining the stalker, sustaining injuries. Both Sunwoo and the staff member were taken to a nearby hospital for examination and treatment.
Immediately after the incident, Sunwoo and our staff visited a nearby hospital for examination and treatment. We prioritize the artist’s health and well-being and are conducting regular condition checks and taking necessary measures.
— IST Entertainment
Recent Incidents Highlight Security Concerns
IST Entertainment revealed that this was not an isolated incident. Other recent invasions of privacy include:
A tracking device found attached to an artist’s vehicle.
Deliberate damage to the tire of another artist’s car.
“Recently, we discovered a tracking device attached to the artist’s vehicle, which was parked in front of our company building, and there was another incident where a vehicle’s tire was deliberately damaged by an outside party. Both incidents were identified immediately after they occurred, allowing us to address them before proceeding with schedules and prevent further harm. We have filed police reports and secured CCTV footage to prevent recurrence of such incidents,”
— IST Entertainment
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Privacy Violations
In response to these escalating threats, IST Entertainment reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the group and its staff with strict legal measures.
“These actions are clear illegal acts that cause mental and material harm to the artist and staff. We are responding to illegal activities, including invasion of privacy, with a zero-tolerance policy and will take firm legal action. Given the excessive violations of the artist’s rights, we are continually collecting evidence and reviewing materials through legal representatives, and we reiterate that there will be no leniency or settlements in this process,”
— IST Entertainment
Fans React
Sunwoo and THE BOYZ recently returned with their song “Trigger” in late October. Fans have expressed anger and concern online, calling for stricter measures to protect idols from stalkers.
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