A recent online comment from former Boys Planet contestant Haruto about the sexuality of fellow trainees has drawn criticism and debate. The former TOZ member’s statement, made during a casual livestream, has led fans to call for an apology, arguing his words were irresponsible.
The situation highlights the sensitive nature of public discussions around personal identity within the K-pop industry. Haruto, a popular contestant from the 2023 Mnet survival show that formed ZEROBASEONE, made the remarks on TikTok Live.
What Haruto Said About Boys Planet
During the livestream, a fan brought up his time on the competitive show. Haruto responded by making a broad statement about the contestants.
“Yes, I am from Boys Planet, but its been, what, three years? Three years already, a long, long, long time ago. Yes, Boys Planet, yes, Boys Planet…nobody, nobody was straight. Nobody. […] I have many secrets I can’t talk about, but someday, someday, I will.”
The clip, where he was also noted for speaking Spanish, spread quickly online. The show itself had been informally called “Gay Planet” by some viewers due to the expressive styles and close bonds, or “bromance,” shown between trainees. However, Haruto’s direct claim moved the conversation from fan observation to a specific, sweeping allegation.
Fan Reactions and Calls for an Apology
The online reaction was swift and divided. A significant number of international fans and netizens expressed strong disapproval. The core criticism is that publicly labeling the sexual orientation of dozens of other people, without their consent, is inappropriate and potentially harmful.
Many argue that such statements can create unnecessary rumors, pressure, and scrutiny for the individuals mentioned, who are still building their careers in a conservative industry. The phrase “He needs to apologize” trended among critics, who felt his comments were reckless. They stressed that discussing anyone’s sexuality should be that person’s own choice, not a topic for a former colleague to disclose on a public livestream.
Others questioned the validity of the claim itself, noting it was an unofficial, blanket statement made years after the show. Some fans came to Haruto’s defense, interpreting his words as a poorly phrased joke or an attempt to support the LGBTQ+ community, though this view appears less common in the current discussion.
Haruto’s Background and Past Controversies
Haruto is a Japanese trainee who first gained attention on the survival show LOUD before appearing on Boys Planet. Though he was eliminated before the final, his popularity led to his debut in the project group TOZ alongside other Japanese contestants Anthonny, Yuto, and Takuto. The group has since disbanded.
This is not the first time Haruto has been involved in a controversy related to sexuality. In 2022, a clip from his former group Treasure’s livestream resurfaced where he commented on a boys’ love (BL) scenario. After a member suggested a BL plot, Haruto responded, “Between a man and man is weird,” which sparked accusations of homophobia at the time. Some fans defended him, stating he was referring to his own discomfort with being shipped with fellow members.
More recently, before the current controversy, Haruto was in a lighthearted interview where he was asked about his “type.” He replied “anything is okay,” and when asked “Guys too?” he nodded in agreement. This clip was viewed by many as a casual, positive moment of openness.
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The Broader Context of K-Pop and Personal Identity
This incident touches on the complex and often restrictive environment of the K-pop industry regarding personal identity. Idols’ public images are carefully managed, and open discussions about personal matters like sexuality are rare. While global fandoms increasingly advocate for openness and support LGBTQ+ rights, the industry in South Korea remains cautious.
Survival shows like Boys Planet often encourage close friendships and emotional storytelling between contestants, which fans enthusiastically engage with. However, translating those observed relationships into assumptions or declarations about real-life sexuality crosses a line for many. It places the individuals, who may not be publicly out or may identify in various ways, in a difficult position.
The call for an apology centers on the belief that, regardless of intent, such public speculation can have real consequences for the careers and personal lives of the people involved. As of now, Haruto has not made any public statement addressing the criticism from the recent livestream.
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