Minseo, a member of the K-pop group FANTASY BOYS, has sparked widespread concern after fans noticed him using a hand gesture internationally recognized as a distress signal for domestic abuse during a recent live stream.
The gesture—showing the palm, tucking the thumb in, and folding the fingers over the thumb—was created during the COVID-19 pandemic as a silent way for victims to ask for help on video calls.
In the now-viral clip, Minseo's hand movement at first appeared casual, but attentive viewers quickly identified it as a signal for help. This is not the first time such a gesture has been seen among the group's members; Hanbin, another member, reportedly made the same sign during a music show appearance.
The incident has led to an outpouring of concern from fans, who have taken to social media to demand immediate action from FANTASY BOYS' agency, PocketDol Studio. Supporters are using hashtags and sharing the video widely to raise awareness, urging the company to address the situation and ensure the members' safety.
the signal they sent to us was loud and clear to the point that there's no way this wasnt intentional. please kindly read and share the thread below
— wyn (@jjemnyangie) May 3, 2025
the one who sent signal in the 2 video i attached is fantasy boys minseo and hanbin, who participated in project 7 last year https://t.co/OfGQfK2vtz pic.twitter.com/C0cz1VcmM0
Adding to the alarm, fans have pointed to several messages posted by Minseo and other members on fan communication platforms. In these messages, Minseo described feeling "not okay" and "overwhelmed," while Sungmin shared that his days have been "nonstop" and "tough." Hanbin was also seen performing on a music show only a day after his grandfather's passing, with reports stating he was given just three days to grieve.
Concerns about the group's well-being have been mounting for some time. Fans were reportedly notified of member Kaeden's hiatus only through indirect means, such as posts from other members and store notices, rather than official statements. There are also claims that some members have been required to continue promotional activities while unwell.
As of now, the agency has not released an official statement regarding the distress signals seen during the live stream.
FANTASY BOYS was formed through the 2023 MBC survival reality show "Fantasy Boys," where contestants from around the world competed for a spot in the final lineup under PocketDol Studio.
