A recent breast cancer awareness event organized by W Korea has ignited widespread criticism, with K-pop idols and the magazine itself facing backlash for what many perceived as a tone-deaf approach to a serious health issue. The event, titled ‘Love Your W 2025,’ featured high-profile celebrities such as RM, J-Hope, and V from BTS, aespa, and actor Byeon Woo Seok. However, the lavish party atmosphere, complete with free-flowing alcohol and celebratory dancing, left many questioning its appropriateness for a cause as grave as breast cancer awareness. Videos and photos from the event, initially shared on social media, quickly drew ire from fans and critics alike. Many pointed out that only three idols—Rei from IVE and Minju and Wonhee from illit—actually addressed the cause during the event. While some fans defended idols like Bang Chan and Seungmin from Stray Kids for their donations, critics highlighted that W Korea has raised only 1.1 billion won (approximately Dh2.8 million) for breast cancer awareness over the past 20 years—a figure deemed insufficient given the event’s opulence. Jay Park, a controversial artist known for pushing boundaries, faced particular scrutiny for performing his song ‘Mommae,’ which objectifies the female body and includes suggestive references to breasts. Park later apologized via Instagram, stating, ‘If any cancer patients were offended by my performance, I sincerely apologize.’ W Korea issued a formal apology on Sunday, acknowledging the criticism and expressing regret for causing discomfort to breast cancer patients and their families. The magazine also apologized to the participating celebrities, noting that the controversy had ‘inconvenienced’ those who attended with good intentions. Despite the removal of all event-related content from W Korea’s social media pages, the backlash continues to resonate, reflecting a shift in the K-pop world where fans increasingly hold their idols accountable for their actions.
W Korea breast cancer awareness party draws backlash to K-pop idols; magazine issues apology
