Gyeongju Mayor Faces Backlash for 'Washed Up' Comment on G.O.D.

In a recent public appearance, Joo Nak Young, the mayor of Gyeongju, South Korea, sparked significant controversy by referring to the veteran boy group G.O.D. as 'washed up.' This remark was made during a recording of KBS-2TV’s 'Immortal Songs—Gyeongju APEC Special,' where the mayor expressed his view that the iconic group, which was among the best-selling artists in Korea during the pre-digital era, might be past their prime. The comment, aimed at a group that has been instrumental in shaping the K-pop industry, drew immediate backlash from fans and the public.

On June 9, 2023, Park Joonhyung, a member of G.O.D., took to social media to address the mayor's controversial statement. He urged fans not to feel hurt, stating, 'No matter what anyone says, we’re okay. This isn’t our first day doing this. I just don’t want you guys to be hurt by someone’s careless words.' His response was characterized by a sense of maturity and resilience, as he reassured followers that there are 'bigger things ahead' and encouraged them to focus on the positive aspects of their journey.

The backlash intensified as fans expressed their frustration over the mayor’s remarks, flooding the official website of Gyeongju City with demands for an apology. The negative response highlighted the deep emotional connection fans have with G.O.D., a group that has been a staple of the Korean music scene since its debut in 1999.

In light of the overwhelming criticism, Mayor Joo issued a formal apology on June 10, clarifying that his intention was not to belittle the group. He stated, 'I had no intention of ridiculing any specific artist. As someone from the same generation, I made the comment with fondness and appreciation for G.O.D., who I’ve long loved and am glad to see still active.' In his apology, he promised to be more cautious with his words in the future and sincerely apologized to the members of G.O.D. and their fans.

The incident raises broader questions about the responsibilities of public figures when discussing cultural icons. According to Dr. Minji Lee, a cultural studies professor at Seoul National University, ‘Public comments made by officials have the power to influence public perception and can significantly impact the reputation of artists in the industry. It is crucial for leaders to be mindful of their words.’

This controversy underscores the ongoing dialogue within the K-pop community regarding respect for veteran artists and the evolving nature of fame in a rapidly changing music industry. As G.O.D. continues to perform and connect with fans, the group remains a symbol of resilience amid evolving trends in the K-pop landscape. The incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between nostalgia for past achievements and the acceptance of new generations in the ever-competitive entertainment world.