BTS ARMY in turmoil - Controversy erupts as some fans send protest truck to HYBE Korea to remove Scooter Braun

Amid the ongoing war and humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Palestine, the world of K-Pop remains in the spotlight as fans from different groups engage in debates over their support for the countries embroiled and how to safeguard their favourites amidst the fan wars. Recently, many users on X (formerly known as Twitter) have initiated various campaigns to show solidarity and advocate for positive change in Palestine.

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Notably, BTS' fandom, ARMY, has emerged as a leading voice, urging HYBE to 'divest from Zionism', particularly focusing on the company's connections to Scooter Braun. However, what initially began as a request to remove the CEO of HYBE-America has escalated into a heated dispute, with some fans going as far as sending a protest truck to HYBE's Seoul headquarters on February 23.

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This development has caused turmoil within the fandom, with many believing it to be a necessary step due to Braun's history of supporting Zionist ideologies.

Protest truck sent to HYBE Korea:

The truck, showcasing the devastation in Gaza, featured English and Korean messages expressing fans' demands, including concerns about Scooter Braun's involvement and collaborations with other artists.

However, some fans are sceptical about the effectiveness of this approach, citing Braun's status as a shareholder and the potential legal complications involved in removing him. As an influential American entrepreneur and record executive, he could sue HYBE for discrimination based on his ideologies. 

Many also fear that this controversy could adversely affect the seven BTS members, who are not directly involved in these matters and are currently serving in the South Korean military.

ARMY issues with Zionism:

In addition to concerns about Scooter Braun, fans have also voiced discomfort over the recent use of BTS's platform to promote Usher, an artist known for his support of Zionism and Israel. 

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Similarly, there is disapproval among fans regarding the rumoured release of a song featuring RM collaborating with Pharrell Williams, who has been a vocal supporter of Israel and its military.