In the dazzling world of K-pop, idols appear flawless, composed, and deeply connected with their fanbases.
But beyond the curated performances and fan service lies a disturbing reality many idols face daily: sasaeng fans—individuals whose obsession leads to stalking, privacy invasion, and even physical threats.
These fans don’t just cross boundaries—they erase them entirely, often putting idols in unsafe and traumatizing situations.
While many fans respect the personal lives of their favorite stars, sasaeng fans represent a darker side of fandom that continues to plague the K-pop industry.
Sasaeng (사생팬) fans are known for extreme behaviors that violate idols’ privacy and security.
These actions range from bombarding idols with phone calls, waiting outside their homes or dorms, following them on flights, and even planting GPS trackers in their cars.
Despite efforts from agencies and idols themselves to raise awareness and strengthen security, sasaeng activity remains a serious problem in the K-pop world.
The Reality of Sasaeng Behavior
Sasaeng fans are not simply overenthusiastic supporters—they are often obsessive individuals who track idols’ locations, steal personal information, and sometimes attempt physical contact without consent.
Several idols have spoken out about the extreme behavior they’ve encountered.
For instance, BTS’s Jungkook has revealed during livestreams that he frequently receives phone calls from unknown numbers- later confirmed to be sasaeng fans attempting to reach him directly.
During one stream, he calmly but firmly stated that he blocks these numbers instantly and encouraged fans to respect his privacy.
Similarly, Red Velvet’s Seulgi and Wendy ended a livestream prematurely after constant call interruptions from sasaengs.
Their decision to address the issue publicly highlighted how intrusive these behaviors have become, even in real-time interactions.
EXO members have long been targets of sasaeng fans. D.O. once admitted that these encounters made him develop a constant “victim mentality.”
Meanwhile, EXO’s Lay has also expressed discomfort and fear, especially after discovering that sasaengs had followed him across international borders.
EXO’s dorm once became a target of break-ins, and some fans even installed GPS tracking devices in members’ vans.
These incidents underline the seriousness of the threat and the psychological toll it takes on idols.
Idol Responses: From Calm Reprimands to Direct Confrontation
Some idols have opted for a more direct approach in dealing with sasaeng fans. NCT’s Renjun recently made headlines after exposing a sasaeng who harassed him via private messages and phone calls.
Instead of remaining silent, he boldly responded on social media:
“Don’t hide and type like a rat… talk to my lawyers instead.”
His unapologetic tone earned praise from fans who admired his bravery in confronting the issue head-on.
NCT’s Yuta reportedly gave sasaengs the middle finger after spotting them lurking near his dorm, a bold gesture reflecting his frustration.
Similarly, BTS’s V took matters into his own hands when he encountered stalkers at an airport.
He flipped the script by recording them with his phone—mirroring their behavior and shocking them into backing off.
Even older generation idols like Shinhwa’s Kim Dong Wan have fought back. He famously sprayed water on sasaengs who had been trailing him and his bandmates.
Later, he publicly stated,
“Shinhwa is not responsible for your lives,” drawing a clear boundary between healthy admiration and invasive obsession.
Legal Measures and Agency Actions
To address the growing problem of sasaeng behavior, entertainment companies have begun implementing stricter rules.
Agencies like SM Entertainment and HYBE have pledged to take legal action against fans who harass their artists online or in person.
The South Korean government also amended the Minor Offenses Act in 2011, expanding penalties for those who stalk public figures.
Despite these efforts, enforcement remains inconsistent. Some police officers have reportedly dismissed cases involving idols, arguing that fame comes with public attention-even if that attention crosses legal lines.
In response, idols and agencies have started keeping detailed records, issuing public warnings, and installing more robust security systems at dorms, airports, and venues.
Traumatic Impact and Mental Health Strain
The psychological impact of sasaeng behavior is profound. TVXQ’s Yunho once described the sensation of being followed and watched as “living in a prison.”
JYJ’s Jaejoong shared multiple stories about stalkers who rang his doorbell at all hours or snuck into his building.
His experience was so distressing that he expressed doubt about the law’s ability to protect him, saying,
“The police didn’t help. They said it was ‘normal’ for idols.”
This chronic stress can lead to anxiety, paranoia, sleep disturbances, and in severe cases, withdrawal from the public eye.
Some idols stop going live or avoid fan interactions altogether to protect themselves, ironically distancing them from the very fans who respect them the most.
Building a Healthier Fandom Culture
Fortunately, many K-pop fans are now actively working to combat sasaeng culture. ARMY (BTS’s fanbase), for example, has repeatedly called out other fans who overstep boundaries, especially when BTS members are spotted during personal vacations.
Fans online also spread awareness, sharing what not to do as a fan and urging respect for idols’ private lives.
The most effective solution lies in shifting fandom culture from obsession to appreciation.
Fans must understand that idols are not public property—they are people. Respecting their space and personal time is the ultimate form of support.
While admiration and connection lie at the heart of K-pop fandom, there’s a clear line between fan enthusiasm and dangerous obsession.
K-pop idols are increasingly using their voices, platforms, and legal avenues to reclaim their privacy and safety from sasaeng fans.
As the industry continues to grow, both companies and fans have a role in creating a respectful environment—one that cherishes idols not as products of fantasy, but as real people deserving dignity, safety, and peace.
Stray Kids, one of the most dynamic forces in the K-pop industry, have once again proven their status as global superstars.
On July 18–19, 2025, the group is set to perform at the iconic Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, marking a historic moment not just for the group but for the entire K-pop industry.
As the first K-pop act to ever take the stage at this 60,000-seat stadium, Stray Kids are breaking new ground—and redefining what it means to be global artists.
This isn’t just another concert. It’s a bold statement of how far the group has come since their debut under JYP Entertainment, and a reflection of how deeply K-pop has infiltrated international music scenes.
The London stop is part of their 2025 world tour, aptly titled “Dominate”—a fitting name for a tour that’s setting records across Europe.
From Humble Beginnings to Stadium Fame
Stray Kids’ journey to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is nothing short of extraordinary. The group began their “Dominate” world tour in Amsterdam on July 11, 2025, before heading to Frankfurt on July 15.
Each stop has seen sold-out venues and ecstatic fans, but the London performance stands out for its sheer scale and symbolism.
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, opened in 2019, is typically reserved for premier sports events and world-renowned artists.
That Stray Kids now joins the ranks of such performers speaks volumes about their reach and influence.
Moving from 5,000-seat venues to one that can hold 60,000 people underscores the exponential growth of their fanbase, known as STAY, and the ever-expanding appeal of their music.
For STAYs, this concert isn’t just a performance—it’s a celebration. Many fans have followed the group since their early days, watching them evolve from a self-producing rookie group into a globally dominant act with chart-topping albums and high-profile collaborations.
For both new and longtime fans, seeing Stray Kids perform in such a monumental venue is a shared moment of pride.
What Makes Stray Kids Different
Stray Kids are not just riding the K-pop wave—they’re redefining it. Known for their hard-hitting beats, introspective lyrics, and genre-defying music, they offer something truly unique.
As a self-producing group, much of their discography is created by their in-house unit 3RACHA, which includes members Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han.
This creative autonomy gives their music authenticity and resonance, allowing fans to connect with the themes of identity, growth, and resilience.
Their performances are equally powerful. Stray Kids combine cutting-edge choreography with raw emotional delivery, making their live shows unforgettable.
It’s no surprise their concerts have become some of the most sought-after tickets in the K-pop world.
Continuing the European Tour
Following their groundbreaking London concerts, Stray Kids will continue their European leg with performances in:
- Madrid on July 22
- Paris on July 26–27
- Rome on July 30
Each of these stops offers fans across Europe the chance to witness the group’s energy, stage presence, and musical evolution up close.
Stray Kids (Credit: YouTube)
For many international fans, these concerts are not just about seeing their idols—they’re a rare chance to experience the full sensory immersion of a live K-pop event.
K-Pop’s Expanding Footprint in the West
Stray Kids’ success is emblematic of a larger trend: the unstoppable rise of K-pop in the Western music market.
Once considered a niche genre, K-pop has now become a major global force, influencing everything from fashion to social media culture.
The fact that a K-pop act can headline a stadium in London is proof of how much things have changed.
While groups like BTS and BLACKPINK helped lay the groundwork for K-pop’s Western expansion, Stray Kids are pushing it further.
They represent the next generation of idols—ones who not only perform but also produce, design, and connect deeply with fans worldwide.
This global impact is supported by a loyal, digitally savvy fanbase that promotes the group through social media trends, streaming campaigns, and fan-organized events.
The synergy between the artists and their fans is a driving force behind this movement.
A Defining Moment in Music History
As the lights go down at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and the cheers of 60,000 fans fill the air, it’s clear that this concert is more than just a tour stop. It’s a defining moment in Stray Kids’ career and a testament to the global power of K-pop.
The images, videos, and emotions captured over those two nights in London will undoubtedly go down in fandom history.
And yet, for Stray Kids, this is likely just the beginning.
As they continue to “Dominate” the global stage, more milestones, records, and firsts are surely on the horizon.
