i-dle’s Yuqi Issues Apology Following Controversial Comments on Concert Tickets
At a press conference held on May 19, 2025, to celebrate the release of (G)I-DLE’s new eighth mini album, Yuqi addressed backlash stemming from recent comments she made on the YouTube show Salon Drip. Her remarks, which centered on the financial burden of concert tickets for her family and friends, sparked controversy among K-Pop fans.
During her appearance on the show earlier this month, Yuqi expressed her frustrations about her family needing to purchase tickets to attend her concerts. "When we perform in Thailand, all of Minnie’s family, friends, school seniors and juniors, and classmates gather in one place. It’s our concert, but we still have to buy the tickets with our own money, and I just don’t get that," she explained, highlighting that they are limited to four complimentary tickets per person and must pay for additional ones.
The comments were met with criticism from fans, who felt that the idol was disconnected from their experiences. In response to the backlash, Yuqi acknowledged that her attempt at humor may have crossed a line. "I was pushing myself to be funny and I crossed the line," she admitted.
During the press conference, she offered an apology, stating, "Whenever I appear on variety shows, I tend to be in a playful, high-energy mood. I think I was forcing it a bit too much that day." Yuqi clarified that her intentions were playful and aimed at nudging her management company about being “stingy,” a sentiment that her bandmate Soyeon supported.
Yuqi expressed regret for any hurt her comments may have caused, underscoring her appreciation for the fans who make their concerts possible. "I realized that I had hurt their feelings. I’m truly sorry," she affirmed, urging the press to approach her comments with understanding.
This incident has not only spotlighted the pressures idols face but also the delicate relationship between K-Pop stars and their fanbases. As the group continues to promote their new music, Yuqi’s apology serves as a reminder of the responsibilities artists bear in their interactions with fans.
