Even if you’re not fully aware of the things going on in our world, you have absolutely some knowledge of the current horrific events that have thrown Palestine asunder. And while I would normally not care whether your fave musician or K-Pop idol has shown support for something, over here it actually does matter. Because the longer we stay quiet, the more things get worse for everyone. 

Although, it isn’t as if K-Pop Idols can even be very explicit in their solidarity. One of the biggest criticisms of the industry in general is how a K-Pop Idol has a very curated image, and being political is a very strict no-no. Oftentimes they might want to be vocal about their activism, but they can’t be because the company they are signed on to might silent them. And the consequences of breaching contracts are immense.

But I feel like that can’t be an excuse anymore. There are some K-Pop Idols that have covertly expressed their political leanings through buying and sharing Pro-Palestenian artwork, like RM of BTS and Jennie of BlackPink. But personally, I don’t think this is a time where we can afford to be quiet about our activism. However, here’s a list of some of the K-Pop Idols that have loudly shown support and solidarity with Palestine.

eaJ – Day6

I still have a bone to pick with eaJ, formerly Jae of Day6, regarding his out-of-pocket comments over Jimin, a soloist. But at least he does have a conscience, considering he has apologized publicly and is now using his voice for good. Like for sharing information about Palestine.

Despite stating that he doesn’t know very much about the conflict, he has shared guides for organizations that are currently on the ground in Gaza, in order to provide aid. It’s not enough, but it’s a start, at least. 

Jay Park 

Not Jay Park being one of the only K-Pop idols to support Palestine even before the events of October 7th. And yes, this has all been going on for far, far longer than anyone else realized. So, seeing Jay Park show his solidarity towards the Palestinian cause through Instagram posts and stories back in 2021?

I’m glad. I hope he does more of it now, considering how the entire thing has escalated so much more. Jay Park is a senior in the industry, so many younger idols might follow suit if they see him using his influence to speak up.

Jonghyun – SHINee

SHINee was actually the first boy group that I ever stanned and Jonghyun was one of my favorite members. Sadly, he passed away way too soon, and it was sheer devastation for Shawols and the K-Pop industry in general. Talented and sensitive, he was like the beating heart of the group.

And we saw proof of his gentle soul when he posted about Palestine, all the way back in 2014. Jonghyun was always eloquent in his activism, and to him, Palestine mattered. Even when it wasn’t in the news constantly.

Yoon Mi-rae

Speaking of senior musicians in Korea speaking up, Yoon Mi-rae is doing exactly that. Yoon Mi-rae has always tried when it comes to speaking up about socio-political issues, with her ties to the Black Lives Matter movement and her teaming up with her husband, Tiger JK, to help endorse children’s rights.

So it was only a matter of time that she’d speak up about Palestine, taking to her Instagram to post about the relentless bombing in Gaza, where entire families are being killed in a massacre.

Kevin – The Boyz

Kevin takes the award for ‘Gen Z Finding A Way Through Any Censorship’ behavior. Apparently accusations were made which Kevin came to clear out himself, stating that he would absolutely never support ‘that shiet’. He posted hearts in the colors of the Palestinian flag, urging his fans to share educational links and donation platforms. He also stated that it sucked how he’s in an industry which is dedicated to making humans happy, while still being hush hush about actual human rights issues.

Honestly, considering how his company isn’t one of the Big 4 in K-Pop, I’m surprised he still tried. It might not be a lot, but it’s certainly braver than other, more popular K-Pop idols have been.

BM – KARD

Leave it up to BM to be outspoken, instead shying away from adversity. As a long-standing Hidden KARD, I didn’t not expect him to be vocal about Palestine, but it was still amazing to see nonetheless. KARD is known for being more non-conventional than other K-Pop groups and BM stands at the forefront of it.

Right at the thick of everything, BM used his own birthday to ask his fans to send their prayers to Palestine, inciting his privilege in being able to celebrate while Gazans are going through Hell on Earth.

Fatou – BlackSwan

BlackSwan is absolutely K-Pop and you can go argue with the wall! Despite having so many hiccups, they are one of those groups that always hit the mark. And I love the entire group’s dynamic with each other, especially Fatou. So, of course, her coming out to be so Pro-Palestine during a casual live stream?

Icon behavior. She simply read ‘Free Palestine’ and proceeded to say yes, of course. Because to her, any decent human would be in solidarity with those currently being occupied and threatened. Fatou is known for not mincing words, and she made her stance very clear here.

Honestly, it shouldn’t be this hard to find more K-Pop artists that support Palestine openly. But sadly, too many are quiet. And silence only serves the oppressor. I hope that we will have days where we all aren’t afraid of being on the right side of history, no matter our social standing. 

May Gazans walk in a Free Palestine once more. Ana Dammi Falasteeni!