A wave of concern has washed over the online k-pop community today following observations made during Fantasy Boys‘ recent live broadcast. The moment that sparked widespread attention involved leader Kang Minseo allegedly making the internationally recognized hand signal for help, a gesture specifically designed for victims of abuse.
the thing that caught all our attention today was minseo making the sign of help for abuse victims pic.twitter.com/jcm0ejdsC6
— ana ♡‧₊˚ #ProtectPocketdolArtists (@binisticc) May 3, 2025
While the initial focus centered on Minseo’s actions, eagle-eyed fans quickly recalled a similar instance with fellow member Hanbin during a past “ending fairy” segment. At the time, Hanbin’s gesture was largely dismissed as awkwardness due to the surprise of being the focus. However, in light of Minseo’s repeated use of the same signal, alarm bells are ringing louder.
it’s not the first time, since hanbin was seen doing it in an ending fairy too. it didn’t raise concern at first because he was surprised to be the ending fairy that day so it seemed as him being awkward pic.twitter.com/KyzvvTWROH
— ana ♡‧₊˚ #ProtectPocketdolArtists (@binisticc) May 3, 2025
This particular hand signal, a simple tucking of the thumb into a closed fist and then folding the fingers down over the thumb, has gained recognition in the U.S. as a discreet way for individuals experiencing abuse to signal their need for help.
The fact that Minseo, the leader of the group, was seen making this exact gesture multiple times has understandably sent shockwaves through the fandom.
Adding fuel to the fire is Kim Kwangsoo is the CEO of PocketDol Studio, Fantasy Boys‘ agency. His name carries a heavy weight within the industry, and not always for positive reasons. Given his reputation, the possibility of mistreatment within the agency has become a significant concern for fans.
Following the broadcast, Minseo addressed the situation via the fan communication platform Bubble. His message translated read roughly along the lines of:
“I’m recovering now i’m sorry to make you worry so much and i think everyone was really surprised by the last live broadcast, i thought i had to explain i didn’t mean to misunderstand when i was so tired and in a bad condition, but i was really surprised that the situation got this big. i’m sorry. i’m sorry that i’ve worried and damaged everyone and i’m sorry that i’ll be the one who acts more carefully from now on.”
While Minseo’s apology addresses the worry caused, it has done little to quell the underlying concerns. Many fans interpret his words as potentially being influenced by the agency, rather than a genuine explanation.
This incident has also brought to the forefront long-standing grievances regarding the alleged mistreatment of Fantasy Boys by PocketDol Studio. Fans point to a relentless schedule that has seemingly pushed the members to their limits.
The timeline of events paints a worrying picture:
- August – December (Previous Year): Half of the members participated in survival shows, enduring months of intense pressure and competition.
- January: A February comeback was announced, followed by news of a collaboration with fellow group BAE173.
- February – March: Both the comeback and the collaboration dates were pushed back, with Fantasy Boys finally making their comeback in March. The BAE173 collaboration (“Double One”) was recently delayed to the latter half of the year.
- Since January: Alongside preparing for their comeback and the now-delayed collaboration, Fantasy Boys were also gearing up for two concerts and a two-week promotion for their full Japanese album. This intensive schedule occurred immediately before their month-long comeback promotions.
Recent Concerning Events:
- Member Hikari fell ill in Japan just one day before the start of comeback promotions. Around the same time, Hikari also experienced the loss of his grandfather. He shared the first message about this on April 11th at 12 AM KST.
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Following a hospital visit requiring an IV drip, Hanbin faced further distress, including bleeding ears and the loss of his grandfather. Despite being granted a mere three-day bereavement leave, he was scheduled to appear on a music show only one day after.
hanbin had to go to the hospital and was put on an iv drip, he went to the hospital again because his ears were bleeding and he experienced the death of his grandfather. he was given a break of exactly three days to grieve, and he was made to go on a music show one day after- pic.twitter.com/B1oPBXiLUv
— ana ♡‧₊˚ #ProtectPocketdolArtists (@binisticc) May 3, 2025
-the death of his grandfather. first message is from april 11, 12am kst pic.twitter.com/kAaeHQhnl6
— ana ♡‧₊˚ #ProtectPocketdolArtists (@binisticc) May 3, 2025
- Kaedan went on hiatus, with fans initially learning about it through music store announcements before an “official” confirmation from Hikaru.
kaedan went into hiatus and we only found out through music shops. the ‘official’ announcement came from hikaru pic.twitter.com/c4qk2o5CXX
— ana ♡‧₊˚ #ProtectPocketdolArtists (@binisticc) May 3, 2025
The relentless workload doesn’t appear to be letting up. Fantasy Boys have further Japan concerts scheduled for this month, followed by an ASEA performance and then promotions for “Double One,” potentially keeping them occupied until July.
it’s clear the members can’t take it anymore. pic.twitter.com/QBwz7Lt75y
— ana ♡‧₊˚ #ProtectPocketdolArtists (@binisticc) May 3, 2025
Fans are increasingly vocal about their fears for the members’ well-being. One fan expressed,
“Kim Kwangsoo has been overworking the group to the max and the members are stressed out because of it. I don’t know if that hand signal was really for that or just a coincidence but I’m hoping it at least raises awareness of the group’s mistreatment.”
Another fan’s comment reflects the growing frustration and calls for accountability:
“How tf is kim kwangsoo still roaming free and still putting together new groups? Ban his ass.”
While it remains uncertain whether Minseo’s hand gestures were indeed a deliberate cry for help, the concerns raised by fans regarding the group’s intense schedule and alleged mistreatment are valid and warrant attention. The situation highlights the immense pressure faced by K-pop idols and the importance of ensuring their well-being is prioritized. The hope among fans is that this incident will at the very least shine a light on the potential struggles Fantasy Boys may be facing behind the scenes.
What are your thoughts on Minseo’s hand gesture? Do you believe Fantasy Boys’ are overworked? Let us know in the comment section below!
