Amid South Korea’s election season, K-pop idols are treading carefully as they navigate the heightened scrutiny from fans and media alike. With the political landscape stirring conversations, many idols are steering clear of political affiliations by avoiding colors like red and blue, which symbolize the two major parties.
This caution extends even to hand gestures. Idols often use the peace sign or “V” sign out of habit, but as the election campaigns heat up, this has led to some unintentional slip-ups. For instance, members of NMIXX, Bae and Sullyoon, found themselves in an amusing predicament when they inadvertently posed with a peace sign, prompting a flurry of surprise and laughter as they scrambled to correct their gesture.
On social media, fans shared moments like this in real-time. One user tweeted about the hilarious recovery: “아 썅 ㅜㅜ 애교부리려고 무의식적으로 브이했다가 안돼ㅠㅠㅠㅠㅠ브이하지마ㅠㅠㅠㅠㅠㅠ 하면서 1부터 10까지 다 하는 중 ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ,” which conveys just how entertaining and light-hearted these mistakes can be.
Others have echoed this sentiment. ENHYPEN’s Jay had a similar experience, instinctively going for the peace sign before realizing the implications. His fans couldn’t help but laugh at the relatable moment captured in their interactions, leading to playful tweets that emphasized the charm of their idols trying to maintain neutrality during this sensitive period.
The charming antics extend to the members of RIIZE, who shared amusing content as they navigated their photographic poses. In one incident, a fan captured a comical moment involving one member unexpectedly encountering a hand gesture, causing a ripple of laughter among onlookers.
Some idols have opted for even more extreme measures. For example, &TEAM‘s EJ can be seen with a clenched fist, a direct avoidance of any hand gestures that might stir political associations. Members from groups like NCT Dream and VIVIZ have also been spotted keeping their hands discreetly hidden in pockets or behind their backs—taking no chances on misinterpretation.
Netizens have taken to social media to share their amusement at these efforts. One fan commented, “Everyone trying so hard is so cute lol,” while another added, “Honestly, I feel like a peace sign or thumbs up should be fine, but the way the idols are reacting is just so adorable. I can’t help but keep watching lol.”
These antics reveal not just the playful side of K-pop idols but highlight their awareness of the importance of staying neutral amid a politically charged atmosphere. As they continue to grace our screens and stages, their charming attempts to sidestep potential controversy are certainly winning hearts, proving that even in the midst of serious matters, there’s always room for a good laugh.
