Singer Kang Daniel facing criticism for remarks he made on Universe

K-pop

Published: 20 Jul. 2022, 17:20 Updated: 20 Jul. 2022, 17:44

Singer Kang Daniel facing criticism for remarks he made on Universe

Singer Kang Daniel [KONNECT ENTERTAINMENT]

Singer Kang Daniel is under fire for remarks he made while recently talking to fans on fan community platform Universe.

A screenshot of the text conversation he had with fans on an unspecified date has been circulating online since Wednesday. The singer was talking about how he feels excited to be the host for Mnet’s upcoming dance competition show “Street Man Fighter,” a male version of last year’s hit show “Street Woman Fighter,” which Kang also hosted.

“I am quite familiar with all of the featured dancers or have mutual acquaintances,” Kang wrote, referring to his b-boy roots. “I’m able to serves as the host of this show because I’m experienced in the field as well.”

The singer proceeded to reminisce on his experience on “Street Woman Fighter,” which raised some eyebrows.

Singer Kang Daniel is under fire for a gender-related remark he made while recently talking to fans on fan community platform Universe. [SCREEN CAPTURE]

“To be really honest, I’m so comfortable [regarding ‘Street Man Fighter’] because it’s all men,” Kang wrote. “I’m happy because I don’t get drained of energy. It [‘Street Woman Fighter’] was really scary. ‘Street Dance Girls Fighter’ [the teen version of ‘Street Woman Fighter’ which aired last year] was much scarier too.”

When some fans pointed out that his comparison of the male and female versions was inappropriate, Kang rebutted.

“What’s wrong with saying it was scary?” he texted. “Imagine yourself reciting a poem, let’s say, in front of 60 men. It’s scary, isn’t it. I was shivering at first. They were noonim [older women] with really strong makeup and eyeliner.”

Some fans in the chatroom objected to why Kang referred to the female competitors as “draining of energy” and “scary.” Kang dismissed the objections and stated that he would block the people who made the critical comments.

“Saying that this is about gender [...] I am at a loss for words,” he responded.

“People like those [who objected] would be so angry when they attend a standup comedy show. Let’s relax. Life is hard enough already.”

Netizens are torn on whether Kang’s remarks and reaction to criticism were insensitive, or if the criticism was undeserved. Since an artist’s group chat with fans on Universe is a paid service, some point out that Kang’s threat to block fans was inappropriate.

Kang debuted in 2017 after winning first place on Mnet’s hit idol audition show “Produce 101.” He and ten other finalists formed the project boy band Wanna One, which disbanded in early 2019. He debuted as a soloist in July 2019 and most recently released his first full-length album “The Story” in May.

BY HALEY YANG [yang.hyunjoo@joongang.co.kr]