K-pop privacy at risk: From BTS and NewJeans to Haruna, fan break-ins raise alarm
Billlie's member Haruna / Xportsnews
Unauthorized entries into the homes of K-pop stars — sometimes accompanied by threats or stalking — are on the rise, prompting concern from both fans and agencies about artist safety.
Mystic Story, the agency representing Haruna of the girl group Billlie, said Friday that a serious incident recently occurred in which an outsider “used force to damage the front door and trespassed into Haruna’s residence, causing a direct threat to the artist.”
As a result, Haruna has been diagnosed with psychological distress and advised to take time off for rest and recovery. She will temporarily suspend all activities.
“We recognize the seriousness of the matter and plan to take strict legal action, both criminal and civil, without leniency,” the agency said. It added that her return schedule will be announced later.
Haruna is not the only K-pop star to face such incidents.
BTS member Jungkook / Xportsnews
In June, a Chinese woman in her 30s was arrested while attempting to enter the home of BTS member Jungkook. The woman repeatedly tried to input the front door’s password before being caught by police after a neighbor reported suspicious activity. She allegedly told investigators she had traveled to Korea to see Jungkook, who recently completed his military service.
BigHit Music, the agency representing BTS, confirmed that a police investigation was underway and said, “We are cooperating fully with authorities by submitting CCTV evidence to ensure that the intruder is held criminally accountable.”
The agency added, “We have also been filing immediate police reports in stalking cases involving BTS members and are pursuing restraining orders alongside criminal charges. We will respond strictly, without any leniency, to any action that threatens the privacy or safety of our artists.”
NewJeans / Xportsnews
NewJeans also experienced a break-in at their dormitory. In February, a man in his 20s entered the group’s residence in Yongsan, Seoul, on two separate occasions and stole items including a coat hanger and banners. The suspect reportedly discovered that the door was unlocked and returned days later to steal more items.
At the time, NewJeans had already vacated the dorm after notifying their agency, ADOR, of contract termination in November. The door was reportedly left unsecured.
The man admitted to all charges during trial, and prosecutors sought a 10-month prison sentence. The court ultimately imposed a fine of 10 million won (approximately $7,200).
This article from Xportsnews is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.