K-Pop star Choi Siwon is facing backlash on social media after expressing his grief over the assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
Kirk, a prominent ally of President Donald Trump, was tragically shot dead at Utah Valley University on Wednesday during a live Q&A session.
Why are K-Pop fans angry at Siwon?
Siwon, who shared two Instagram stories expressing sorrow over Kirk’s death, has been criticised by many K-pop fans.
The anger stems from Siwon’s public support for Kirk, a staunch advocate of right-wing politics, which many feel goes against the values of inclusivity and diversity typically associated with the K-pop community.
This is not the first time Siwon has faced controversy; two years ago, he was called out for posting a joke about the transgender community on social media.
How did Charlie Kirk die?
Charlie Kirk, 31, was fatally shot during a live event at Utah Valley University. The shooting occurred midday, after Kirk’s speech, during a Q&A session.
Video footage shows Kirk responding to a question when a single gunshot erupted. While initial reports indicated a suspect was in custody, later updates revealed conflicting information regarding the situation.
‘Such a hypocrite’
Netizens slammed Siwon across social media platforms. A user noted, “Interesting that he claims to be a christian, but seems to align with those who display anti Christian characteristics. And for the record this isn’t about him “ being” a Christian, it’s about the hypocrisy of who /what he sometimes champion in the name of God.”
Another wrote, “Claim to be devoted Christian, but supported Israel and genocide. UN ambassador but silence when children got bombed and starved to death.”
“Choi Siwon calling a fascist who thought having empathy for others was a sin ‘a good and faithful servant’ – I don’t ever want to hear shit from Siwonists again trying to excuse or downplay his beliefs. “He’s a far-right freak, and he’s completely lost the plot,” added a netizen.