ITZY’s Ryujin Protects Lia After She Gets Unexpectedly Shoved During Music Bank Arrival
A recent incident involving ITZY’s main vocalist, Lia, has sparked outrage among the group’s fanbase. The group was making their way towards SBS’s Music Bank when an unidentified individual — still unclear whether a fansite or a reporter — roughly pushed Lia aside.
The shocking incident was captured on various cameras, with several fans and onlookers witnessing the unfortunate event unfold. Making matters even more concerning was the fact that Lia appeared visibly tired and unwell, amplifying the negative impact of the sudden push.
seeing videos of lia from 230901 suggests there is really something bothering her about her back. I hope she's okay. please get enough time to recover 🥺 pic.twitter.com/ydvxxk7ECT
— ≷ isho ᵐᶦᵈᶻʸ ᵐᶦᵈᶻʸ 🍰 (@FantzyTwt) September 2, 2023
The footage also shows fellow ITZY member Ryujin immediately coming to Lia’s rescue. Notably upset by the uncalled-for gesture, Ryujin’s frown was apparent as she swiftly held onto Lia. The ITZY star ensured her member’s safety and guided her away from the bustling crowd of reporters and fans.
Paparazzis walking past by Lia, bumping her without even looking back and apologizing is so rude. No wonder Ryujin held Lia and stared strongly cause this was just unprofessional of them. Know your boundaries. pic.twitter.com/dMIdb3twON
— 💓 (@FIVEOFITZY) September 1, 2023
Paparazzi should be more careful next time, rushing to get a better position but hitting Lia in the process is so disrespectful, you can see Ryujin did not like that but Lia took it like a champ at the end 🥲#리아 #LIA #ITZY #있지 pic.twitter.com/IugQEz71O8
— Lia Edits (@Mushy_mush_Lia) September 1, 2023
Fans have since taken to Twitter to express their disappointment, anger, and concern over the incident. A majority of the fans were appalled at the lack of an apology from the person who pushed Lia as she nonchalantly walked away from the scene.
Hey……Pls be careful …..at least provide space for our girls….you just pushed Lia like this….are u still fans?????👎🏻🌚🙄 pic.twitter.com/0lA41rviU5
— 🌼For530 & 417 (@yoong530417) September 1, 2023
Questions regarding the security arrangements for the popular girl group also arose. Fans questioned the efficiency of ITZY’s security detail, with one stating, “Why would their security not do anything ????”
Wth, where is ITZY's security or even some body guards??! That girl just bumped into Lia without saying sorry after 😥😮💨 https://t.co/bVMtSJYn5E
— Cristine Onswerzy | semi-hiatus 😔 (@once_to_twicee) September 1, 2023
The evident change in Ryujin’s mood was also highlighted by fans — with many finding her reaction rightful and thanking her for stepping in.
2shin talking abt the incident. ryujin’s really upset. https://t.co/CG5zQZOPGc pic.twitter.com/hUhPjLTrZq
— em | ITZY KILL MY DOUBT 🥊 (@jisusjisoo) September 1, 2023
Given the rising popularity of K-Pop idols and their increasing interactions with the public, incidents like these shed light on the potential risks they face. Fan meetings, public broadcasts, and other events often expose idols to such unforeseen dangers. As such, many fans have begun urging entertainment companies to beef up their security protocols to ensure the safety of their beloved idols.
UM WHY DOESNT ITZY HAVE BETTER SECURITY CZ WHY WAS IT SO EASY FOR THAT PHOTOGRAPHER TO PUSH LIA?!?!? pic.twitter.com/2f0bm6pFeg
— kas ♡ (@LOV3M0M0) September 1, 2023
Neither JYP Entertainment nor ITZY’s members have released an official statement regarding the incident. Still, fans across the globe are waiting to see what measures will be taken to prevent such events in the future.
ITZY 리아 9/2(토) 스케줄 안내https://t.co/IVldPSuRH5
— ITZY (@ITZYofficial) September 2, 2023
Meanwhile, Lia was not able to participate in ITZY’s music show performance earlier today, as well as the group’s upcoming fan sign events both online and offline. JYP Entertainment, the group’s label, cited “health reasons” as the cause behind her absence.