In a surprising move, SBS announced that solo artist Sunmi would take over as the new MC for "Showterview," replacing the popular rapper Jessi.
Known for her carefree and comfy image, Jessi's interactions on the show were beloved by fans for their humor and spontaneity.
Jessi's Reaction: Shock and Disappointment
Jessi had previously announced a temporary leave from the show, promising a stronger comeback. However, the news of her replacement came as a shock to both her and fans.
Comments (Photo : INSTAGRAM)
Taking to Instagram, Jessi expressed her surprise at the decision, revealing that she had not been informed beforehand.
The abrupt replacement of Jessi without any prior notification sparked outrage among netizens. Many took to social media to criticize SBS for its unprofessional handling of the situation, leaving fans disappointed and confused.
Jessi (Photo : Twitter)
The sudden change has created an awkward situation for both Jessi and Sunmi, who find themselves caught in the middle of the controversy despite no fault of their own. Fans are torn between supporting Sunmi and expressing solidarity with Jessi.
SBS Silent Amidst Backlash
Despite the backlash, SBS has remained silent on the matter, adding to the frustration of fans and netizens who seek clarity and transparency regarding Jessi's departure and Sunmi's appointment.
Jessi (Photo : INSTAGRAM)
This incident highlights the challenges and controversies that can arise in the dynamic world of Korean entertainment, where sudden changes can leave a lasting impact on both artists and their fans.
(Retained quote from Jessi's Instagram post): "I had no idea. LOL"
(Retained quote from netizen comment): "SBS's lack of communication is disappointing. Jessi deserved better."
Recently, Jessi, in an interview with the "Zach Sang Show," explained why many K-pop idols struggle to show their true selves in the industry. She attributed this to the conservative nature of Korean entertainment culture compared to more diverse media landscapes elsewhere.
Jessi highlighted the pressure on idols to maintain a certain image, especially if they debuted at a young age. According to her, this fear of deviating from established personas leads to a lack of openness among idols.
Jessi's own authenticity has made her a standout figure in K-pop, but she acknowledges the unpredictability of controversies in the industry, urging caution.
Overall, Jessi's insights shed light on the challenges faced by K-pop idols in expressing their true identities amidst public scrutiny.
