EVERGLOW, known for their powerful ‘girl crush’ anthems, has faced numerous challenges in the competitive K-Pop landscape. From accusations of bot manipulation to controversies surrounding its members, the group’s journey has been anything but smooth. Let’s revisit their biggest scandals and hardships.
1. Bot Manipulation Allegations (2024)
In early 2024, EVERGLOW was accused of using bots to inflate music video views. This sparked debate within the FOREVER fandom and the broader K-Pop community, raising concerns about the authenticity of online engagement.
Reaction: Yuehua Entertainment denied the allegations and promised clarification. However, the incident impacted the group’s image, especially among dedicated fans. This highlighted the pressure for high viewership and the challenge of combating misinformation.
2. Aisha’s School Bullying Allegations (2021)
In February 2021, Aisha faced accusations of school bullying. This sensitive issue drew strong reactions in South Korea.
Reaction: Yuehua denied the claims and threatened legal action. The accusations were later proven unfounded, clearing Aisha’s name. This demonstrated the importance of swift crisis management.
3. Yiren’s “Pirate” Corset Controversy (2021)
In 2021, Yiren’s corset in the “Pirate” MV was accused of plagiarizing a Windowsen design previously worn by Jolin Tsai.
Reaction: Yuehua apologized, explaining the corset wasn’t an official Windowsen product but a similar item purchased by the stylist. The incident still affected the group’s image. This emphasized the need for careful wardrobe checks to avoid such issues.
4. Early Criticisms of Musical and Conceptual Similarities (2020)
From their debut, EVERGLOW faced criticism for musical and conceptual similarities to other groups, notably BLACKPINK. Songs like “Bon Bon Chocolat,” “Adios,” and “DUN DUN” drew comparisons to international hits.
Reaction: These criticisms posed an early challenge. However, EVERGLOW developed their distinct style, proving their appeal with each release. This highlighted the importance of establishing a unique identity.
5. Yiren’s Temporary Hiatus (2022)
In 2022, Yiren took a temporary hiatus to focus on studies in China, raising concerns about the group’s lineup.
Reaction: The group continued as a five-member unit, demonstrating their commitment. Yiren’s return later solidified the team’s stability, emphasizing the importance of unity within the group.
EVERGLOW’s journey has been marked by both triumphs and challenges. These controversies have provided valuable lessons, underscoring the need for cultural sensitivity, effective communication with fans, and strong internal support. Despite facing obstacles, the group remains resilient, continuing to pursue their musical ambitions and growing stronger with each experience.
