“Your main fanbase is from the generation who's lived the previous martial law”— Fans slam Lim Young-woong for his response amidst political turmoil

Singer Lim Young-woong has come under fire for his alleged remarks during a politically charged period in South Korea. On December 7, 2024, the soloist shared an Instagram post celebrating his pet dog Siwol’s birthday. While many fans appreciated the update, it drew criticism from some who felt the timing was inappropriate given the country’s ongoing political unrest.

As reported by Yonhap News on the same day, a disgruntled netizen privately messaged Lim Young-woong, questioning his celebratory post amid nationwide protests against President Yoon Suk Yeol. For those unaware, the President recently survived an impeachment motion following his controversial martial law declaration.

In response, Lim Young-woong questioned why, as a non-politician, he should feel compelled to comment on political matters. This exchange, once shared online, quickly gained attention, with many criticizing his dismissive tone. The exchange between the idol and the user as translated by the X user @MayaxAru:

User- "What are you doing in times like these?"

Lim Young-woong- "What?"

User- "People are gathering over the impeachment of a President who declared martial law. I'm not expecting you to speak, but you're too indifferent."

Lim Young-woong- "Am I a politician? Why should I speak up?"

Netizens questioned his understanding of the protests, asserting that no one expected him to act as a politician, but his seemingly ignorant reply was disappointing. An X user, koojjunie, wrote:

"He should've kept silent but at some point, your platform and voice is expected especially when your main fanbase is from the generation who's lived the previous martial law."

Many argued that Lim Young-woong should have shown greater sensitivity, given that his fanbase largely consists of middle-aged individuals. With most of his fans aged 40 and above, many likely experienced or remember the consequences of martial law from 1979, approximately 45 years ago.

"I hate celebrities who say they have nothing to do with it, they have a huge platform and they don't use it," an X user added.

"99 percent of the people marching in the streets are not politicians. But they do it because the time calls for it," another netizen remarked.

"And I hope he loses all the support he’s earned from those women," a user wrote on X.

"this is actually a crazy thing to say knowing that he has a predominantly elderly fanbase, the very same ajummas who may have witnessed the traumatic experiences of periods of martial law in south korea...," a person mentioned.

Others felt that while sharing a post celebrating his dog's birthday was not inherently wrong, it was his dismissive response to the situation that truly sparked criticism.

"Lim Young Woong couldn't speak up but could respond to DM's saying that it's not his duty to speak up. You can't make this up," an X user wrote.

"Although I don’t believe people HAVE to speak on political issues he could’ve just kept his mouth shut yk weird a*s response," a netizen remarked.

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Lim Young-woong yet to address criticism amid ongoing protests in South Korea

Moreover, some fans claimed they were removed from Lim’s official fan cafe after asking him to clarify his stance. The media outlet OSEN News reported that attempts by them to reach Lim’s agency, Mulgogi Music, for a statement have reportedly gone unanswered.

This has left many wondering if the singer will address the criticism before his upcoming concert on December 27.

The incident comes amid heightened political tensions in South Korea. President Yoon’s declaration of martial law earlier this week led to widespread protests and clashes at the National Assembly, where lawmakers and citizens opposed his actions. Although Yoon later reversed the decision, the failed impeachment vote has left the nation divided, with protests continuing across the country.

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Netizens are now awaiting an official statement from Lim Young-woong or his agency to address the authenticity of the alleged message.