In a recent episode of HANBAM's YouTube series, "Idol Complaint Manager Hur," K-pop girl group Aespa voiced their longing for personal Instagram accounts.

The group's management, SM Entertainment, has not allowed individual accounts, prompting a debate on the rights of K-pop idols on social media platforms.

Aespa Speaks Out

During the episode, members Karina and Winter candidly shared their grievances with SM Entertainment. Among various concerns, Winter emphasized the group's desire for personal Instagram accounts.

This disclosure quickly piqued the interest of fans who wonder about SM Entertainment's choice to deny personal accounts to the artists.

Social Media Limitations

Host Young Ji inquired about the group's current social media status, and the members confirmed that Aespa only has an official group account, leaving them without individual online presences.

The conversation led Ningning to express bewilderment and ask for an explanation as to why SM Entertainment has not permitted personal accounts.

K-pop Idols' Social Media Journey

Young Ji outlined the typical social media progression for K-pop idols: they begin with an official group account and then establish personal accounts around their seventh year of debut.

The discussion prompted Aespa members to question SM Entertainment's hesitance to grant them personal accounts.

Giselle and Karina underscored the inconsistency in the company's stance, with Karina remarking, "They think we might mess something up," while Giselle pointed out, "But if that's really the case, they should stop us from live streaming too."

The Private Account Alternative

Young Ji suggested that Aespa create private accounts as a compromise, potentially addressing the concerns of both the group and the company. However, Ningning humorously disclosed that they already have private accounts, eliciting laughter from everyone.

Navigating Online Presence

Young Ji drew attention to the challenges idols confront when they launch personal social media accounts but struggle to post regular updates.

The irregularity can lead to frustration for both fans and idols, emphasizing the pressures associated with maintaining a robust online presence. The host encouraged Aespa's management to enhance communication with the artists to better tackle these issues.

Aespa's aspiration for individual Instagram accounts has highlighted SM Entertainment's restrictive social media policies. As fans await the company's reaction and wonder if Aespa will be granted the personal online presence they seek, the debate continues.

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