Former BEAST member Jang Hyunseung sparked major backlash after using an inappropriate term linked to an online community while chatting with fans — and he has since issued a public apology.
On the 23rd, through the fan platform Fromm, Jang posted, “I sincerely apologize for the discomfort and disappointment I caused last night during our conversation due to my carelessness, lack of awareness in my choice of words, and the attitude I showed afterward.”
He continued, “I used that expression carelessly without fully understanding how it’s used or could be perceived. Regardless of my intentions, I should have been more cautious.” Addressing his pushback against fans’ criticism, he added, “I took concerns about my remarks too lightly and insisted on my own position instead of admitting my mistake. I deeply realize that I must take responsibility for my words and attitude, and I will be more cautious and responsible from now on.”
The controversy broke out the previous day during a real-time chat with fans. When a fan asked about the meaning of the trending slang ‘yaru’ (야르), Jang explained it by calling it “a perfect substitute for ‘ang gimotti’” and “ang gimotti-ttakdagooree.” ‘Ang gimotti’ is a distorted Japanese-phrase meme that has circulated widely in subcultures, but it’s often used in obscene or mocking contexts on far-right online communities like ‘Ilbe (Ilgan Best)’, giving it a strongly negative public perception.
Fans warned him, saying, “That expression is controversial, so it’s best not to use it,” “It’s terminology from a problematic community,” and “If it spreads outside, it could cause trouble.” However, Jang reacted with displeasure, responding, “How am I supposed to know that?” and “If you’re uncomfortable, leave (the room). Don’t overinterpret it,” continuing a tense back-and-forth with fans for a while.
After screenshots of the exchange spread rapidly across social media and online communities, criticism surged. Recognizing the seriousness, Jang posted an additional apology: “I believe ignorance is also a fault. It felt wrong to try to go on with my work while my fans were feeling anxious,” acknowledging his poor handling of the situation and apologizing again.
Jang, who had been preparing a return to activities after a hiatus by actively reconnecting with fans, has now marred those efforts with this rash remark and response.