On October 28, 2025, KQ Entertainment, the agency representing the global sensation ATEEZ , announced its firm stance against such online misconduct.
Through an official English statement, the company declared its intent to pursue legal action against individuals and groups responsible for spreading misinformation, malicious rumors, and derogatory content about ATEEZ.
This announcement underscores the increasing need for agencies to protect artists from the severe mental, emotional, and reputational harm caused by online harassment.
With the rise of social media, the boundaries between constructive criticism and defamation have often blurred—prompting entertainment companies like KQ to take proactive legal and ethical measures.
A Clear Message: Zero Tolerance Toward Defamation
KQ Entertainment began its statement by expressing gratitude to fans who have stood by ATEEZ with love and loyalty.
The agency then addressed the growing issue directly, confirming that false information and malicious commentary about its artists had been spreading across social media platforms and online communities.
“These actions,” the statement read, “not only cause severe damage to our artists’ reputations and create unnecessary confusion among fans, but also constitute clear violations of the law.”
This declaration emphasizes that the matter is not just about hurt feelings—it’s a legal concern.
By labeling such actions as “clear violations of the law,” KQ Entertainment reinforces the message that online harassment and false claims can have real-world consequences.
Protecting Artists’ Rights and Mental Well-Being
The agency further stressed that the protection of their artists’ rights and interests is their top priority.
They also mentioned that internal monitoring systems have been reinforced to track harmful online behavior more efficiently.
The statement confirmed that the agency is filing formal complaints and reports to the appropriate authorities, making it clear that they are not merely issuing warnings but actively initiating legal processes.
Such a decisive response reflects the broader movement within the K-pop industry—where entertainment companies have become more assertive in protecting their artists from digital abuse.
The focus has shifted from passive warnings to concrete legal steps aimed at accountability and deterrence.
No Settlements, No Leniency: A Warning to Offenders
Perhaps the most striking portion of the statement is KQ Entertainment’s firm stance on refusing leniency or private settlements.
The agency declared that “all legal measures will be pursued to the fullest extent possible, with no leniency or settlements.”
This resolute tone serves as a warning to those who engage in the creation or distribution of false information.
It also sends a message to fans and the public that KQ will not tolerate the exploitation of ATEEZ’s fame for malicious intent or gossip.
The agency also highlighted the issue of “secondary harm”, which refers to the additional damage caused when people share or quote false information without verification.
By addressing this, KQ acknowledges that even unintentional sharing of unverified claims can perpetuate harm.
Call to Fans: Responsible Support and Cooperation
In addition to taking legal action, KQ Entertainment encouraged fans to play a role in protecting ATEEZ by acting responsibly online.
The statement advised fans to refrain from sharing unverified information, as doing so could unintentionally harm the artist or fuel ongoing rumors.
To streamline cooperation, the agency provided a dedicated reporting email — protectkq@gmail.com — where fans can send evidence of false or defamatory content.
They even offered a structured email subject format (e.g., “ATEEZ / X / Spreading of False Information”) to ensure reports are processed efficiently.
This collaborative approach between the agency and fans demonstrates KQ’s awareness of the vital role that fandoms play in both supporting artists and combating misinformation.
By involving fans in the process, KQ fosters a sense of unity and shared responsibility, creating a safer digital environment for ATEEZ and their supporters.
ATEEZ (Credit: YouTube)
A Pattern of Protection: Industry Context
KQ Entertainment’s announcement aligns with a larger trend within the K-pop industry.
Over the past few years, many entertainment agencies—including HYBE , SM , JYP, and YG—have implemented similar legal policies to shield their artists from defamation and cyberbullying.
These actions come after several high-profile incidents where online hate led to devastating consequences, including mental health struggles among idols and, in some tragic cases, loss of life.
As awareness around these issues grows, agencies have realized the importance of swift and firm legal recourse.
For ATEEZ—who have built a reputation for their intense performances, global tours, and strong bond with fans—this protection is both timely and essential.
The group’s rising international fame has made them a frequent subject of online discussions, some of which unfortunately cross ethical boundaries.
KQ’s proactive stance thus reassures fans that ATEEZ’s well-being, dignity, and mental health are being prioritized.
A Message Beyond ATEEZ: The Fight Against Digital Abuse
While the statement focuses on ATEEZ, its implications go beyond a single group. KQ Entertainment’s actions represent a growing cultural acknowledgment that online harassment is not a form of “free speech” but a form of digital violence.
The spread of falsehoods, malicious rumors, or body-shaming remarks can lead to long-term reputational and psychological harm. By declaring zero tolerance for such behavior, KQ is contributing to a necessary cultural shift—one that demands accountability and respect in digital spaces.
This move also encourages other entertainment companies, influencers, and fans to adopt similar standards of responsibility.
It serves as a reminder that admiration for artists must coexist with ethical behavior and empathy.
ATEEZ: Rising Above Negativity
Despite the online challenges, ATEEZ continues to thrive as one of K-pop’s most dynamic groups.
Known for their powerful stage presence, conceptual storytelling, and unmatched teamwork, the eight-member group —Hongjoong, Seonghwa, Yunho, Yeosang, San , Mingi, Wooyoung, and Jongho—has amassed a massive global following.
Their commitment to artistry and authenticity has made them a role model for younger fans.
As they prepare for upcoming projects and international appearances, KQ’s support ensures that the group can focus on their craft without the distraction of malicious attacks.
The company’s statement not only safeguards the group’s reputation but also reinforces the mutual respect between ATEEZ and their fandom, ATINYs.
BTS’s Jimin recently captured fans’ hearts with a nostalgic and emotional Instagram update that unexpectedly resonated with netizens worldwide.
On October 28, 2025, Jimin shared a photo dump from BTS’s practice room, showing himself meticulously cleaning the mirror, sparking a wave of sentimental reactions across social media.
A Glimpse into BTS’s Practice Room
The photos reveal Jimin in a familiar setting: BTS’s practice room, a space fans associate with countless memorable rehearsals, performances, and personal moments.
The focus of the update was Jimin erasing a graffiti doodle he created back in 2023, before his military enlistment.
The doodle had become iconic among fans, representing a cherished era in BTS’s journey.
With a playful caption, Jimin wrote:
“Erasing the doodle after 2 years”
This simple act carried deep emotional weight, symbolizing both the passage of time and the beginning of a new chapter for BTS .
Fans immediately drew connections to the previous era, noting how much the members—and the fandom—have grown since 2023.
Playful Interactions Among Members
BTS’s Jimin (Credit: Pinterest)
“Since we need to use the practice room now, please clean it up thoroughly and neatly”
The exchange showcased the warm camaraderie and playful dynamics between BTS members, which fans have long celebrated.
The humorous banter added a charming touch to an otherwise sentimental moment, making the update feel personal and genuine.
Fan Reactions and Nostalgia
Fans flooded social media with posts reflecting both joy and nostalgia, emphasizing the emotional significance of Jimin’s post.
Many highlighted the contrast between creating the doodle in 2023 and erasing it in 2025, symbolizing the end of an era and BTS’s ongoing evolution. Social media captured moments such as:
- “2023, 2025: Art was made. Art was erased.”
- “Jimin’s face while doodling vs erasing”
These reactions underscore how fans cherish BTS’s history and remain emotionally invested in the members’ personal and professional milestones.
Jimin’s update became more than just a casual social media post—it was a shared memory and a bridge between past and present.
Symbolism and Reflection
The act of erasing the doodle goes beyond a mere cleaning task. It represents reflection, transition, and growth—themes that resonate strongly with both BTS members and fans.
The post subtly acknowledges the end of a previous chapter, coinciding with the group’s ongoing return from military service and preparation for future projects and activities.
Jimin’s choice to zoom in on small, personal details in the photos highlights his attention to the intimate and nostalgic moments that fans adore.
By sharing these candid snapshots, he bridges the gap between his personal experiences and the global fan community, reaffirming the emotional connection BTS has nurtured over the years.
A Moment of Sentiment and Joy
Jimin’s Instagram update successfully combined humor, nostalgia, and heartfelt reflection, evoking a wave of emotions among netizens and fans alike.
By erasing his iconic graffiti from 2023, he not only marks the passage of time but also signals the beginning of a new era for BTS and their dedicated fans.
The post is a reminder of the deep bonds between BTS members and their supporters, highlighting how small, personal moments can resonate on a global scale.
Fans eagerly responded to the update with admiration and emotional commentary, celebrating both Jimin’s playful personality and reflective nature, further cementing his role as a cherished member of the group and a source of inspiration worldwide.
This simple yet poignant update from Jimin demonstrates how BTS continues to bridge past memories with present realities, keeping their journey relatable, heartfelt, and enduring for fans everywhere.
