In the world of K-pop, fan loyalty and support play a pivotal role in an artist's success. However, the relationship between fans and entertainment agencies can sometimes become strained when accusations of exploitation arise.

One such controversy has recently erupted, with SM Entertainment, one of the industry's leading companies, being accused of taking advantage of the fervent fandom of popular boy group NCT.

Recent revelations about promotional emails and the control of NCT 127's TikTok account have sparked frustration among fans, shedding light on what they perceive as unfair treatment.

Backlash for Promotional Email Mix-up and Cross-Promotions 

A viral post on June 20 highlighted the grievances of NCT 127 fans regarding a promotional email sent by SM Entertainment. The post revealed that international NCT 127 fans received a promotional email intended for NCT Dream, another sub-unit of NCT.

This incident raised concerns among fans who felt neglected and overlooked by the agency, as they expected to receive information specific to NCT 127's activities.

SM Entertainment utilizes user information from the American site to promote other NCT units to NCT 127 fans. As the only NCT unit under an American label, NCT 127 fans felt that their personal information was being used to benefit other units within the agency. 

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Exploitation of NCT 127's TikTok Account

The same post also brought attention to another issue regarding NCT 127's Japanese TikTok account. It was disclosed that SM Entertainment had taken control of the account and transformed it into NCT's group Japanese TikTok account, without prior consultation with NCT 127 fans.

Fans had become aware of this situation in March but chose not to disclose it until now. This move by the agency left fans feeling betrayed and further fueled their frustration.

Netizens Express Frustration

Netizens quickly joined the conversation, expressing their shared frustration with SM Entertainment's handling of the situation.

Many fans and observers were surprised to learn that the agency had neglected to promote Taeyong and NCT DoJaeJung's albums to the loyal NCT 127 fanbase.

The revelation further fueled the ongoing criticism against SM Entertainment and sparked discussions on fair treatment of artists and fan communities.

Full discussion here.

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KpopStarz own this article.

Written by Madison Cullen