In a recent turn of events, HIGHUP Entertainment finds itself under scrutiny for placing a STAYC fansite on its blacklist, triggering a wave of criticism. The cause of the dispute? The fansite’s act of capturing photos of the members within the confines of an airport.
Email Unveils BLACKLISTING: HIGHUP Cites Airport Photography as Reason
The controversy unfolded when the fansite received an email from the person-in-charge of STAYC’s fanclub, accusing them of uploading airport photos on social media. The attached files emphasized the alleged violation, with a deadline set for response by December 19, 11:59 pm. Failure to provide a satisfactory explanation would result in the fansite’s placement on the blacklist.
Fan Outrage: “HIGHUP’s Treatment is Unfair”
Expressing their discontent, the fansite asserted that the airport is a public space, frequented even by journalists for photo sessions. Some voiced their frustration online, questioning the fairness of the company’s actions.
잘먹고 잘 사세요 하이업 이렇게 팬 다 쳐내고 꼭 성공하길! ! pic.twitter.com/Ve5QbRs5Aw
— soft peach (@soft__peach__) December 14, 2023
“Live and eat well, HIGHUP. Hope you succeed after chasing away fans.”
Critics argue that HIGHUP Entertainment’s decision may backfire, hindering rather than fostering STAYC’s fanbase growth. Fansites, they claim, often serve as a crucial bridge for individuals to transition into dedicated fans.
아니ㅋㅋ 공항에서 팬들이 가수를 때렸나요아니면 스텝한테 욕을 했나요블랙의 정당한 이유를 모르겠네 https://t.co/iX1hcJCmF0
— 쿠잉 (@cooing0420) December 14, 2023
“No, but did they hit the singers? Did they curse at the staff? I don’t know what’s a justifiable reason for being blacklisted.”
Confusion Prevails: Fans Question Company’s Approach
As the backlash intensifies, fans are left questioning the rationale behind the company’s actions, considering the essential role fansites play in cultivating a supportive fan community.
아니ㅋㅋ 공항에서 팬들이 가수를 때렸나요아니면 스텝한테 욕을 했나요블랙의 정당한 이유를 모르겠네 https://t.co/iX1hcJCmF0
— 쿠잉 (@cooing0420) December 14, 2023
미친거아님?요즘 소속사들 왜이렇게주제파악을못하지오프다니는팬들한테 감사합니다해도모자랄판에 https://t.co/UMXwu01KS6
— 고죠 박일구 (@19again19) December 14, 2023
“Are they crazy? Why are companies these days unable to know where they stand? It’s not even enough for them to thank fans who go to offline schedules.”
Photo Controversy: Fansite’s Images of Seeun at the Airport
The disputed photos include snapshots of Seeun at the airport, further fueling the debate over whether such actions warranted the extreme measure of blacklisting.
As the story continues to unfold, one can only speculate on the long-term impact this incident may have on the relationship between HIGHUP Entertainment, STAYC, and their ardent supporters.