Reasons for proliferation of cyber bullying in South Korea are complex, yet it is believed to be tied to the conservative and strict, hierarchical and competitive culture. In a fast moving society built upon traditionally conservative idea, stress runs high amongst individuals. And the freedom and anonymity of the internet becomes a gateway to release pent up frustration. Add to this the lack of accountability and enforcement of laws and the internet becomes a breeding ground for online bullies.

Public figures have spoken out time and again how damaging and taxing online harassment can be for mental well being and this is backed by more than enough research available on the issue. But there is a silver lining to the story. South Korea has been taking stronger stance on cyber bullying over time and political parties are actively pushing reformative agenda. Artist management agencies have also been gradually taking a stricter stance on online slander by reporting individuals to the enforcement authorities.

B. Being a K-Pop Idol

Quick Context

There is much public furore every time a celebrity scandal breaks out which is quick to die within a few days. Fandoms are hurt, hearts are broken, but reality is accepted and people move on.

But the case of Monsta X is a peculiar one. As of the day of publication of this article, Monbebes (name of Monsta X’s fandom) are on their 7th day of protest and are still going strong.

Known to be a quiet and docile fandom, Monbebes have stepped up demanding for Wonho to be returned to the group, for Monsta X’s management agency to take prompt actions and also consider the members’ mental health.

Fans have staged silent protests outside of Monsta X’s management company in Korea and banners with supportive messages have been put up. Globally, fans have gathered across cities to hold their own silent protests. A petition asking for Wonho to be reinstated in the group has received more than 430,000 signatures and fans even raised in excess of 20,000 USD within 24 hours to put up a billboard message for Monsta X in New York Time Square. Messages of support are constantly being posted on Monsta X’s official online community forum and fans have been contentiously carrying out various projects to show support for the group. The sheer force of the Monsta X’s fandom can be felt on Twitter where for the 7th day straight, Monbebes have been trending supportive hashtags, both in English and Korean.

And it is not just the fans who have stepped to defend Wonho, Shownu and the rest of Monsta X. Supportive messages have come in from their peers and colleagues in the industry as well as their staff members. A sight rarely witnessed in any entertainment ‘scandal’.

This may well be the first time in a while that fans of an idol group have held such a wide scale and prolonged protest.

The Changing Definition of An Idol

But the question is why?

Why did Monsta X receive such widespread support from fans and public when fellow K-Pop idols did not?

Before you rule out the answer as being just another case of fans crying over their idols, consider this: that this may actually be an indicator of the changing definition of an ‘idol’.

K-Pop idols have traditionally been seen as the epitome of perfection: from looks to actions and words- a person who possesses or at least portrays to possess all the good values that make a perfect person. This is mainly because since their target audience has always been people in their teens or early 20s, idols have the societal pressure of being the personification of an ideal person, perfect role models for the younger generations.

This unrealistic fantasy has often caused many idols to get into trouble when their ‘human’ sides come into the public’s notice. News about idols dating, partying, smoking, getting into arguments etc. has severely impacted their careers in the past. However, there has been a visible shift in this perception over the years as fans and public become more accepting of their ‘human’ side. This may be because of the continuous evolution of the Korean society as well as the increasing international attention and influence in K-pop.