K-pop stars face dilemma over expressing views amid martial law debacle

After the shocking but brief martial law declared by President Yoon Suk Yeol on Dec 3, several celebrities, including K-pop singers, have voiced or at least hinted at their stance on the ongoing political crisis.

Speaking out on political matters has long been a taboo for idols, whose freedom of expression is often tightly controlled by their agencies.

However, with the rise of social media and the globalization of K-pop, the question emerges: Should K-pop singers be restricted from sharing their opinions on politics and social issues?

Trot singer Lim Young-woong, who is not a K-pop idol, found himself in hot water for an alleged exchange with an internet user regarding the impeachment of Mr. Yoon.

Mr. Lim had posted a picture with his dog on social media, celebrating his pet's birthday on the day that the National Assembly voted on the impeachment motion.

When a netizen criticized him for being "insensitive" during a national crisis, Mr. Lim reportedly responded: "Am I a politician? Why should I speak up?"

However, his agency could not confirm whether the account in question belonged to Mr. Lim.

In contrast, K-pop singer Lee Chae-yeon, a former member of the girl group IZ*ONE, expressed her views more openly on Dec 7.