LE SSERAFIM’s “BBC” Article Takes Heat Over Mentions Of NewJeans, Kim Garam

Some feel the mentions were not necessary.

An article featuring LE SSERAFIM has earned criticism for its content.

Recently, LE SSERAFIM were interviewed by BBC News and were featured in an article titled “The K-pop band who want to change the industry.” The article discussed different parts of LE SSERAFIM’s journey and how they want to change the idol industry.

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LE SSERAFIM | Source Music

In the first part of the article, the members of LE SSERAFIM and how they came to be in the group are discussed, with a mention of former member Kim Garam included.

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There was originally a sixth member. Kim Garam appeared on the band’s debut EP, Fearless, but her contract was terminated shortly afterwards following accusations that she’d bullied students in school.

— BBC Article

Garam was removed from LE SSERAFIM early on after school bullying allegations.

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Kim Garam | Source Music

In the aftermath of the controversy, Garam took steps to clear her name by publicly denying the allegations of school violence. She also shared documents about the school violence committee investigation, which she claimed proved her innocence.

Following complaints from fans of the former member…

…the article was updated to include this information.

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Updated article | BBC NEWS

Others have found issue with a mention of NewJeans in the article, as well.

The article discusses how LE SSERAFIM would like to change the industry, going on to seemingly mention other groups that have also challenged the status quo.

Earlier this week, a singer with girl group NewJeans testified to South Korea’s National Assembly about the bullying she has faced at work. Last year, the 11 members of Omega X won emancipation from their contract following allegations of “unwarranted treatment” by their label.

— BBC Article

The article is referencing NewJeans Hanni’s appearance before the National Assembly, where she discussed HYBE’s treatment of her and the group.

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NewJeans’ Hanni

Many found the article using her as an example to be in poor taste considering how initial issues between ADOR and HYBE involved LE SSERAFIM. Some felt the article was using the situation with NewJeans to promote LE SSERAFIM.

Source: BBC News
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