K-pop concert in Malaysia sparks online dispute between Southeast Asian and Korean netizens

A K-pop concert in Malaysia has triggered an escalating online dispute between Southeast Asian users and South Korean netizens, with arguments spreading across multiple social media platforms.

The disagreement began after South Korean band Day6 performed in Kuala Lumpur on January 31. Following the concert, several Malaysian attendees criticised Korean fansites for allegedly bringing professional cameras and long lenses into the venue despite organisers stating that no cameras or video equipment were permitted.

In K-pop culture, fansites are dedicated individuals or small teams who photograph idols at concerts and public events using professional-grade equipment. While not officially endorsed by agencies, their images are widely circulated within fandom communities. At the Malaysia concert, one video showed the face of a fansite accused of breaching the rules, prompting debate online.

Although the fansite later apologised, tensions intensified after a Korean user criticised those who shared the image. “She already apologised, so you should say sorry too for recklessly taking and uploading photos of a private individual.

“If you're going to like Korean singers, at least try to respect Korean culture... Or else stop consuming fansite photos on your timeline. Is this a trait of foreign b******? ... that's disgusting.”

Malaysian users responded by arguing that international fans contribute significantly to K-pop’s regional success through streaming and merchandise purchases. The dispute widened when users from Indonesia and the Philippines joined the discussion, defending Malaysia and highlighting the achievements of regional artists such as Indonesian girl group No Na.

A South Korean commenter criticised No Na’s “Shoot” music video, writing: “Were they so broke they couldn't rent a set and had to film it in a rice field... What is this? Are they on their way to transplant rice seedlings?”