EXO Baekhyun Birthday Café Event Gone Wrong? Here's Why Kerries Are Frustrated
EXO Baekhyun decided to celebrate his special day with Korean EXO-Ls, but fans were unimpressed after THIS accusation arose.
What happened?
EXO-Ls Complain About Slow Turnover, Long Waiting Period During Baekhyun Birthday Event
On May 6, EXO-Ls all over the world commemorated Baekhyun's 32nd birthday. To present special memories with fans, the idol organized his own birthday café event in various locations, including Mapo, Seoul.
As a tradition among fans, café events are often run by fans for fans, and if lucky, the celebrant themselves may visit the venue to interact with the attendees.
Meanwhile, contrary to the common culture, Baekhyun decided to launch a birthday event himself under INB100, the entertainment label he established after leaving SM Entertainment.
Starting on May 4, the event was opened to the public, and as expected, an overwhelming number of fans immediately showed great interest. Safety rules were implemented, such as distributing first-come, first-served basis numbered tickets.
The crowd could only enter sequentially. The event could only accommodate 1000 people per day who will receive a rare photocard.
Unfortunately, the atmosphere became heated when more people came than what was expected, causing various unexpected situations and problems.
ALSO READ: INB100 Trainees? Group of Guys Seen Entering EXO Baekhyun's Label Sparks Curiosity
According to fan reviews, fans gathered early for the 10:30 a.m. open run. It is said that because there was a rule that around 50 people per hour could stay for a limited time of about 30 minutes.
However, turnover became slower and waiting period prolonged, igniting complaints for "poor" system and organizing. In fact, the police were even dispatched to the venue due to the large crowd.
Misinformation also happened when fans fell in confusion after info spread that there was an online reservation that needed to be filled in, rather than getting a queuing number.
EXO Baekhyun Accused of Ripping Off Fans For 'Overpriced' Café Beverages, Food
Aside from this, there was a misunderstanding related to the birthday cafe event of Baekhyun due to the beverages and food offered.
Among them, the area which is the most talked about was the pricing of cafe drinks and set menu. Fans claimed it is more expensive than a regular café event.
One EXO-L complained:
"Isn't it too business-like to set up your own café event and charge high prices for drinks and desserts?"
Some then pointed out that café events are supposed to be non-profit, but with the prices of the menus offered, it felt like the idol was ripping off fans.
📢 2024 BAEKHYUN BIRTHDAY CAFE 'STOCK : 0506' 현장 안내
— BAEKHYUN_official (@BAEKHYUN_INB100) May 5, 2024
✅ 5/5 (일) 메뉴 소진#백현 #BAEKHYUN #STOCK0506 pic.twitter.com/HP3LzktOpV
Another complaint is related to the lack of prepared quantity of the beverages and foods that those who entered the afternoon slot were unable to purchase drinks, desserts, and set products, most of them expressed disappointment.
Nevertheless, many Kerries were understanding and left comforting messages online, such as:
- "Even though it's expensive, it's a birthday event prepared by Baekhyun himself, so of course I'm going."
- "I'm so grateful that you prepared a birthday event for us even though you're busy."
HAPPY BAEKHYUN DAY🥳🎂#백현 #BAEKHYUN #HAPPYBAEKHYUNDAY #오월이행복한이유는_배켜니 #해피큥데이 pic.twitter.com/Mzq17tUYji
— BAEKHYUN_official (@BAEKHYUN_INB100) May 5, 2024
Later on, INB100 also addressed the issue.
"Usually, birthday cafes sell drinks based on the prices of drinks at the cafe they are renting, but currently, birthday cafes are selling at a discount from the existing selling price, and above all, the profits are solely the cafe's profits.
You may have felt some discomfort. We will prepare more thoroughly in the future."
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Written by Eunice Dela Cruz
