KCON LA 2024 has been a thrilling event, showcasing iconic performances and memorable experiences for K-Pop fans. However, an incident during a meet-and-greet session has sparked outrage among attendees, leading to significant backlash against event staff.
The Incident
kcon staff do better, do not put ur hands around my waist to grab me during a meet and greet i wasn't even walking slow through. do not touch me in an area im not comfortable being grabbed at
— ㅎㅅㅎ (@Iuv119) July 27, 2024
the difference in the pushes …. and even taesan went like "😮" like pls do not touch me https://t.co/AyELJLzMtC pic.twitter.com/hFc7S5vuXO
— ㅎㅅㅎ (@Iuv119) July 27, 2024
The controversy began with a post on social media by a fan of the group BOYNEXTDOOR. The fan, using the handle @Iuv119 on X (formerly known as Twitter), shared a disturbing encounter during the group’s “hi-wave” event. According to the post, a staff member grabbed the fan by the waist and forcefully moved them along, causing discomfort and distress. The fan’s post included video evidence showing a female staff member aggressively pushing fans, including the user in question who was wearing a pink hat.
btw it’s been like this for two days now and it’s been mostly young girls and women who got pushed, often by being grabbed by their waists, arms and dangerously close to their bottoms by male and female staff. KCON please issue an apology because this is beyond unprofessional. https://t.co/60zHKs1dfv
— em is in sync love ఌ︎ (@hyukakoos) July 28, 2024
High Expectations and High Costs
The “hi-wave” event, part of KCON’s “M&G Premium” package, cost an additional $120 USD per artist and did not include entry to the main concert, where tickets could reach up to $870 USD plus fees for a three-day pass. Given these high costs, fans expected a respectful and enjoyable experience. The aggressive behavior from staff during the BOYNEXTDOOR event was seen as a significant breach of trust and value for money.
No cause they where so aggressive during zb1 high wave I was watching them legit pull girls from their bags so roughly https://t.co/GdrFeYj4rJ
— Bree 🇨🇴🇬🇹 (@bree0073) July 28, 2024
Widespread Criticism
Fans quickly condemned the staff’s actions, describing them as “rude” and “unacceptable.” Some attendees reported similar experiences at other meet-and-greet events, including those with the group ZEROBASEONE. While it is understood that staff need to manage large crowds efficiently, the attendees in the video appeared to be moving at a reasonable pace. Many argued that KCON should have sold fewer tickets if they were unable to handle the volume of fans without resorting to aggressive measures.
Recurring Issues with Security
This incident is part of a broader pattern of complaints against K-Pop event security. Recently, fans criticized the security team of ZEROBASEONE for rough behavior at Kansai International Airport in Japan. Similarly, actor Byeon Woo Seok’s security team faced backlash for excessive measures at an airport lounge. These recurring issues highlight the ongoing struggle to balance effective security with respectful treatment of fans.
Fans Demand Better
Following the initial complaint, numerous fans shared their own negative experiences on social media, echoing frustrations over the handling of meet-and-greet events. The backlash has called into question the standards and training of event staff, with many demanding immediate improvements.
i honestly do not understand why kcon even has the option for a “m&g” (not really a m&g) if they are going to be rushing fans like this by pulling on them?? like shit maybe set a time limit or make more time for this section or limit the amount of people??? do better tf https://t.co/uMaGLiqb5G
— yana (@haobintheory) July 28, 2024
i’m not going to lie kcon really sucked this year staff wise
lineup and the artists attending kcon was amazing but the way thing were being handled was NOT it
— ari (@rtkazuha) July 28, 2024
Awaiting a Response
As KCON LA 2024 concludes its final day of performances and greetings, organizers have yet to comment on the situation. Fans are eagerly awaiting a response and resolution to ensure such incidents do not tarnish future events.
Conclusion
The incident at KCON LA 2024 underscores the importance of respectful and professional behavior from event staff, especially given the significant investment fans make to attend these events. Organizers must address these concerns promptly to restore trust and ensure a positive experience for all attendees in the future.
