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What should have been a time of celebration for MONSTA X’s 10th anniversary has taken a sobering turn, as member Minhyuk issues a second emotional apology over unfounded dating rumors.
As MONSTA X celebrates its 10th debut anniversary, a moment meant to highlight the group’s achievements and dedication, member Minhyuk has found himself at the center of a troubling wave of backlash. The artist recently issued a second apology via the fan communication platform Bubble in response to an unverified rumor about his personal life.
While the dating allegation remains unconfirmed, the response from a segment of online users has been swift and harsh, with some calling for Minhyuk to “leave the group” and questioning his loyalty to fans. In his Bubble messages, Minhyuk expressed distress over the situation, writing:
“I don’t think I can endure this anymore…”
He also conveyed a sense of emotional fatigue:
“Over the past 10 years, I have often been involved in controversies and received criticism for things I didn’t do, unable to explain myself, but I kept telling my that idols have to endure this. I thought I could keep going like that, but experiencing so many thing all at once for the first time is scary and sad.”
For many longtime fans, the messages have sparked concern about the mental toll such repeated criticism can take, especially when rooted in speculation rather than fact.
Repeated Harassment and the Cost of Fame
Unfortunately, this is not the first time Minhyuk has been the target of intrusive or harmful behavior. Over the years, he has faced harassment from sasaengs (fans who engage in stalking and other invasive actions), as well as ongoing criticism from corners of the fandom. These incidents have contributed to a troubling pattern of emotional burden placed on the artist.
Public figures, and especially K-pop idols, often experience an intense level of scrutiny. However, when that scrutiny transforms into personal attacks or attempts to control their private lives, the boundaries between fandom and fixation become dangerously blurred.
“…it feels like all the love and affection I’ve shown MOBEBE over this time are becoming meaningless, and that makes me the saddest.”
10 Years of Dedication
Minhyuk debuted with MONSTA X in 2015 under Starship Entertainment and has since gained recognition for his versatility across music, hosting, and variety shows. He is often described as the group’s “mood maker”—a member who uplifts both his fellow artists and fans with his humor, energy, and sincerity. In addition to his work with the group, he has consistently expressed gratitude toward Monbebes (MONSTA X’s official fandom) and supported the team even while completing his military service.
As the group reaches the milestone of a decade together, fans and industry watchers alike have pointed out that Minhyuk’s continued commitment and contributions deserve recognition, not controversy.
A Larger Issue Within Fandoms
This incident has reignited conversations about the role of consumers and how parasocial expectations can blur the line between admiration and entitlement.
Fans may purchase albums, merchandise, concert tickets, and various forms of content, but the people behind those creations are not the product. Idols like Minhyuk are not commodities. They are individuals contributing to the art we consume, not items we own.
Artists should never feel that their worth depends on rumors or unrealistic ideals. Respect for their autonomy and humanity must be the foundation of any healthy fan culture.
Supporting Artists with Empathy
Minhyuk’s recent Bubble posts reflect not only his personal pain but the larger emotional strain that many artists experience under the public eye. While it is natural for fans to feel connected to the idols they admire, it is equally important to approach that connection with compassion, empathy, and respect.
Now is the time for fans to offer encouragement, to remind Minhyuk and artists like him that their efforts, emotions, and humanity are seen and appreciated. Leaving messages of support, speaking up against harmful behavior, and holding space for idols as people, not just performers, are simple yet meaningful ways to foster a healthier fan culture.
Minhyuk, like all artists, is human first. And that alone is reason enough to treat him with care.
Image Credits: Starship Entertainment
English (US) · 