The recently concluded survival show "R U Next?" co-produced by HYBE and JTBC has been a hot topic in the K-pop community, not just for its intense competition and the debut of the new group I'LL-IT, but also for the interactions between the contestants and the judges.

Chanelle, a contestant who consistently impressed with her talent and became a fan favorite, especially among international audiences, found herself at the center of a controversy. Despite her outstanding performances, she faced criticism from some of the judges, particularly HYBE singer Lee Hyun. His critique of Chanelle's rendition of IVE's "I AM" did not sit well with many fans, leading to a wave of online discussions.

However, the controversy took a new turn when videos surfaced showing the contestants' interactions with the judges post-show. One particular video that has garnered significant attention features Chanelle and Lee Hyun. As Lee Hyun appears to move in to pat Chanelle on the head, she seems to back away, looking somewhat uncomfortable. This brief moment has sparked a flurry of online discussions, with many netizens questioning Lee Hyun's approach and the appropriateness of his gesture.

In stark contrast, another video showcases Chanelle's interaction with choreographer Aiki, another judge on the show. The two share a heartfelt hug, with Chanelle appearing visibly emotional. The difference in Chanelle's reactions to the two judges is palpable, leading to further discussions and speculations among fans.

Many netizens have pointed out that Aiki, along with Girls' Generation's Sooyoung, has consistently supported Chanelle throughout the competition. This support could explain Chanelle's warm reaction to Aiki. On the other hand, Lee Hyun's behavior, especially given his seniority and the fact that he doesn't know Chanelle well, has been deemed questionable by many. Some fans have even joked about Chanelle's apparent aversion to Lee Hyun, attributing it to his earlier critiques.

While the exact reasons for Chanelle's reactions remain a topic of speculation, the incident underscores the complexities of interactions in the high-pressure world of K-pop competitions. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and respecting boundaries, especially in professional settings.

The "R U Next?" show may have concluded, but the discussions it has sparked, both about the talent it showcased and the controversies it generated, are likely to continue for some time.

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