The Tiara Bullying Controversy Resurfaces After 12 Years
The long-buried bullying controversy involving the K-pop group Tiara has resurfaced after 12 years, reigniting discussions about the unresolved events from the past. Recently, MBK Entertainment's CEO, Kim Gwang-soo, mentioned the Tiara incident during a broadcast, sparking a new round of truth-seeking debates. His comments suggesting that the members were innocent, thus proceeding with promotions, were seen as a direct assertion that bullying never occurred.
This set the stage for former member Hwayoung to publicly refute the claims, stating that her fellow members did indeed bully her, subjecting her to verbal and physical abuse. Hwayoung claimed to possess substantial evidence of her mistreatment and revealed her intentions to hold a press conference to discuss it. However, she alleged that threats from the CEO regarding her sister's contract caused her to remain silent for over a decade without receiving an apology.
As the story unfolds, YTN Star contacted former trainees and artists from Core Contents Media, who had firsthand experiences during the group's active years. One trainer, Lee Joo-hyo, confirmed that Hwayoung was indeed bullied and shared memories of distressing group chats where members reacted insensitively when Hwayoung expressed remorse for missing a performance due to an injury. These testimonies have fueled renewed interest in the dynamics within Tiara.
Amid tensions surrounding a leg injury incident, experts speculate that the internal conflicts may have arisen from resentment felt by original members towards new additions. Previous trainers remarked on the apparent cliques forming within the group, noting that bullying can manifest in many forms, not solely through physical actions. As discussions and investigations continue regarding the allegations, the impact on the members' reputations and their ongoing careers remains to be seen.
This renewal of interest in the Tiara controversy showcases how unresolved issues in K-pop can linger, affecting not just the individuals involved but also their fans. Continued dialogue around these topics may help foster more positive environments within the entertainment industry.