2NE1‘s Dara is facing backlash for recounting a story about dating a 14-year-old boy when she was 19. The incident, shared on her YouTube show “Dara Tour” last year, has resurfaced, drawing criticism from international netizens.
The Story and Its Aftermath
What do you mean that when Dara/Sandara Park from 2NE1 dated a 14 year old when she was 19 by telling him she was 16….. pic.twitter.com/PEHRbL0WKs
— uwu (@KuroUtatane) February 7, 2025
On “Dara Tour,” Dara recounted a trip to the Philippines with Minzy. During the episode, she shared a story from her pre-debut days. She described meeting a “cute” 14-year-old boy who asked for her number. Thinking she might not see him again, she lied about her age, telling him she was 16 (she was 19 at the time). They went on a few dates, including arcade visits and a movie. Dara then revealed that after her debut, her real age was revealed, and she didn’t contact him again. Minzy’s reaction was to laugh and say the boy had been “scammed.”
Why the Controversy?
The story has ignited controversy due to the age difference and the power dynamic involved. While Dara was 19, the boy was 14. The age of consent and legal definitions of adulthood vary across countries. In some places, Dara would have been considered an adult, while the boy would have been a minor. In South Korea, where both were living at the time, both would have been considered minors, as the age of majority is 20. Despite this, many netizens have expressed discomfort with the situation, with some even labeling Dara’s actions as “borderline sexual offense,” and pointing out the potential double standard if the genders were reversed.
The Response and Editing
In response to the growing criticism, Dara’s YouTube channel has edited the controversial segment out of the “Dara Tour” episode. They also released a statement explaining the re-editing, citing the need to avoid misunderstandings due to cultural differences. The statement further requested that viewers refrain from spreading “unfounded speculations, misinterpretations, or malicious comments” about Dara based on the video content. They also warned of potential legal action against those who defame the artist’s reputation.
Varying Opinions and Cultural Context
The controversy highlights the complexities of navigating cultural differences and varying legal definitions of age. While some may view Dara’s actions as harmless youthful indiscretion, others find them deeply problematic. The removal of the segment and the subsequent statement suggest that Dara and her team acknowledge the sensitivity of the issue and are attempting to mitigate the fallout. However, the debate surrounding the story continues…
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