“It’s definitely their loss”- Internet reacts as fans support posters for RIIZE Seunghan take over SM Entertainment, demanding his return

On October 23, 2024, fans of Seunghan, the former member of RIIZE shared clips online showing a display of support outside SM Entertainment's building. The supporters showcased posters and banners as a response to his sudden removal from the group, just days after SM Entertainment announced his return following a nearly 10-month hiatus.

The displays, primarily from international fans, expressed frustration with the label's decision and criticized the influence of Korean netizens who had campaigned for his departure. Fans flooded social media with messages of love and support for the artist, emphasizing how much he was still admired despite his hiatus.

Banners featuring phrases like "WE LOVE YOU SEUNGHAN" were prominently displayed outside the label's building in South Korea. Fans also called out SM Entertainment for what they felt was a major loss by letting go of such a popular member.

Many international supporters voiced their belief that the label's decision was heavily influenced by anti-fans, referred to as OT6 supporters, who had protested against Seunghan's return. A user on X, @seunghan_daily wrote,

"More banners for Seunghan. The scale of project & money spent is insane. If only SM weren't so shortsighted and stupid, It's definitely their loss."

"If they didn't withdraw him, the money would go straight into their pocket. To think a lot of people were interested to tune in when they announce his comeback," another X user wrote.

"He was promoting only for 2 months, but look what he gained the entire 11 months he was gone. He IS a star even without exposure," a fan commented.

" @SMTOWNGLOBAL you clearly not understanding his impact," a user on X remarked.

"it’s suddenly so pretty outside of sm," another person mentioned.

Just a week earlier, on October 15, 2024, international fans, particularly those from Mexico and Latin America had already displayed their support by sending trucks to the SM building with messages backing the idol's return.

"More banners are arriving!!! All our love for Seunghan has become a tourist attraction. I hope he comes to see it too," a fan commented.

"i can’t believe sm decided to support fans who sent funeral wreaths instead of fans that are doing things like this BRIIZE YOURE AMAZING," an X user wrote.

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Timeline of the events that led to the exit of Seunghan from RIIZE

The international fanbase further expressed frustration at the behaviour of domestic fans, who they felt were unfairly influencing the group's future. This surge in support for the artist follows a wave of backlash against the actions of OT6 fans, who previously staged a controversial protest by sending funeral wreaths to SM Entertainment.

The wreaths, typically used to symbolize mourning, were seen as highly inappropriate. Videos even surfaced of fans filming TikTok dances in front of the wreaths, sparking outrage online. Many described the gesture as insensitive and cruel, especially after Seunghan was seen walking past the wreaths looking visibly upset.

The controversy surrounding the member began in August 2023 when photos and videos allegedly showed him kissing a woman and smoking, leading to calls for his removal. While he took an indefinite hiatus to reflect, SM Entertainment initially planned for his return. However, after intense backlash from some fans, the label eventually removed him from the group.

Despite his voluntary departure, international fans remain vocal about their dissatisfaction, accusing domestic fans of lacking empathy and being harsh.

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As RIIZE continues as a six-member group, the incident has sparked wider discussions about the pressures idols face, fan culture, and the impact of extreme fan protests on an artist’s career.