Joshua, a prominent member of the beloved K-pop ensemble Seventeen, has finally emerged from his silence on Weverse following a tumultuous period of dating allegations and subsequent backlash.
The artist’s choice to speak outcomes in the wake of criticism from a vocal subset of fans who have expressed their discontent over the mere possibility of Joshua being involved in a romantic relationship. His silence on various social media platforms, including Weverse, had been conspicuous since rumors began circulating regarding his alleged connection with model Cho Mi Young. However, his recent comments on Weverse reveal a supportive and resilient spirit, as he offered his encouragement to fellow bandmates who were facing their own challenges.
The controversy that enveloped Joshua stemmed from rumors surrounding his potential romantic involvement with model Cho Mi Young. This swiftly ignited a barrage of criticism from a faction of fans who voiced their displeasure at the notion of Joshua entering a relationship. As a result, he opted to remain quiet on social media, a silence that many interpreted as a response to the allegations and the ensuing negativity.
Breaking his silence on Weverse, Joshua chose a unique path of expression by conveying his support for his bandmates, Seungkwan and S.Coups, who were navigating their own challenges. Joshua’s words were deeply touching, as he sent his love and encouragement to Seungkwan: “Waiting for you, Kwan-ah. I love you.” Similarly, he extended his well-wishes to S.Coups, who was dealing with an ACL injury that would require surgery, saying, “Come back healthy, Coups-yah. And eat a lot of yummy stuff while you’re recovering.”
As Joshua faced a barrage of unwarranted criticism, the K-pop community demonstrated its unity and empathy. Netizens took to social media to counteract the negativity with messages of understanding and compassion. One poignant comment encapsulated the fickle nature of social media hate, reminding everyone that “Social media isn’t real. People who pretend to hate you are the first to smile at you in public.”
Joshua’s decision to speak out on Weverse sends a powerful message of resilience and support amidst challenging circumstances. As netizens continue to stand against baseless hate, this episode serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities within the realm of K-pop culture, where fame, fandom, and solidarity intersect in remarkable ways.