DAY6 Dowoon Faces Backlash for an Unlikely Reason (+JYP Official Statement)

Several Korean celebrities have found themselves embroiled in unforeseen controversies in the midst of a chaotic political climate following President Yoon Suk-yeol's declaration of martial law and subsequent impeachment debates.

DAY6 member Dowoon recently uploaded a video of himself practicing drums while wearing military Uniform, which drew criticism from netizens accusing him of being tone-deaf to the current political situation. Dowoon explained that his outfit was due to overlapping schedules with his reservist training, but this didn’t stop malicious comments and rumors speculating about his political leanings.

In response, JYP Entertainment issued a strong statement: “False information about DAY6’s Dowoon is being recklessly spread and reproduced. We will take firm legal action against the creation and dissemination of baseless rumors and all forms of malicious defamation.”

While some stars have openly supported fans attending impeachment rallies or expressed their own opinions, those who have stayed silent are facing backlash. ASTRO’s Cha Eun-woo became a target of criticism after posting a photoshoot image on his social media at 8 PM(KST) on December 7, coinciding with the ongoing impeachment vote.

Similarly, singer Lim Young-woong stirred controversy by sharing a post celebrating his dog’s birthday on the same day. The situation escalated when an alleged direct message from Lim, stating, “Am I a politician? Why should I speak up?” was leaked, fueling further criticism. The debate over celebrities’ roles in political discussions highlights the increasing expectations placed on public figures in South Korea during times of national turmoil.