The sudden departure of Seunghan from K-pop group RIIZE has ignited widespread controversy, leading to a global backlash against SM Entertainment. The decision, which many attribute to the toxic fan culture and online harassment prevalent in the K-pop industry, has prompted fans and retailers alike to take action. Internationally, a movement to boycott RIIZE merchandise has gained momentum, with numerous stores halting the restock and sale of the group's products.

Retailers across Asia, Europe, and the Americas have joined fans in protesting Seunghan's exit. These stores have taken to social media platforms, aligning themselves with the boycott initiated by the fans. Many retailers have expressed their discontent with SM Entertainment, criticizing the company for failing to protect its artist and allowing a culture of bullying to influence Seunghan's decision to leave.

In a post on their official X account, Dutch K-pop retailer Hey!Hallyu expressed their frustration, stating, "Due to the targeted harassment of some Korean fans towards Seunghan, he is no longer a member of RIIZE. We regret that SM Entertainment, once again, has not been able to protect their artist." Similarly, Nolae, another European retailer, condemned the toxic fan behavior, emphasizing their commitment to "fostering a safe and supportive environment for all artists and fans alike."

  This boycott has gained substantial traction, with several stores opting to either remove RIIZE merchandise from their inventory entirely or halt restocks temporarily. The financial implications of this protest are significant, as fans have also begun boycotting the group's albums, resulting in a notable decline in sales. Many believe this economic impact could pressure SM Entertainment to reevaluate its handling of artists and their well-being.

The controversy surrounding Seunghan's departure escalated rapidly. Just last week, SM Entertainment had announced his return to the group, marking the end of his ten-month hiatus following controversies surrounding his pre-debut activities. International fans greeted the news with enthusiasm, anticipating his return in November. However, the reaction in South Korea was markedly different. Korean netizens launched a barrage of malicious comments, leading to Seunghan's permanent exit only two days after the announcement.

The growing discontent among global fans has translated into tangible actions. In the U.S., several major K-pop retailers such as SubK Shop, K-pop Nara, and Choice Music LA have publicly stated their decision to pause imports of RIIZE merchandise. SubK Shop, for instance, clarified that the move was "out of respect for our customers, fans, and the artist." The company assured that existing orders would be fulfilled but added that "future sales will be re-evaluated as the situation evolves."

Retailers in other regions are also following suit. iPurple, a well-known European K-pop retailer, and other prominent stores like France's Boutique Musica, Germany's Nolae, and Hey!Hallyu in the Netherlands have all suspended their imports of RIIZE products. In Asia and Oceania, stores such as Australia's I Heart K-pop and K-pop Time, as well as the Philippines' CNA K-pop and Seoul Stop, have taken similar actions. These retailers join a growing chorus of voices demanding accountability from the industry and an end to the toxic fan culture affecting K-pop artists.

The coordinated boycott underscores the power and influence of the K-pop fan community, which has demonstrated its ability to mobilize swiftly and effectively. Many fans argue that SM Entertainment's lack of response and protective measures contributed significantly to Seunghan's departure. The company's silence on the issue, despite the ongoing uproar from international fans, has only intensified calls for accountability.

Seunghan's departure marks a significant turning point for RIIZE, a group still in its early stages. The situation also highlights the stark contrast between the reactions of international fans and Korean netizens, demonstrating the complex dynamics that global K-pop groups face. International fans have been vocal in their support for Seunghan, criticizing SM Entertainment for not shielding him from online abuse, while Korean netizens' harsh backlash illustrates the challenges K-pop idols endure in maintaining their careers and public image.

As the boycott continues, it remains uncertain how SM Entertainment will respond to the mounting pressure. The company has not yet issued a public statement addressing Seunghan's departure or the actions taken by fans and retailers. The implications of this controversy are far-reaching, potentially affecting the group's trajectory and the company's reputation on the global stage.

The K-pop industry, often lauded for its global reach and devoted fanbase, faces an increasingly complex environment where the expectations and actions of fans can significantly impact business operations and artist careers. Whether this latest protest will lead to a shift in industry practices or serve as another instance of fan activism remains to be seen.

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