RIIZE Under Fire After Taking Free Photos with Fans in the USA — A Result of Poor Ticket Sales?
RIIZE has come under intense criticism after being seen taking free photos with two fans on the street near Times Square in New York.
What seemed like a friendly moment quickly turned into a heated debate online, as fans across Asia accused the group of favoring U.S. fans while neglecting their Korean and Chinese fanbase.
One viral post that ignited the discussion read,
“RIIZE is really crossing the line. Just because their U.S. tickets aren’t selling well, does that mean they can take free pictures with fans there? In Asia, we spend millions just to take one picture — and now in the U.S. it’s free? Chinese fans are already furious. So, will they also take pictures openly in Korea now, without hiding?” (@okk_iy)
Fans argued that such an encounter would be “impossible in Korea,” with many expressing frustration that Asian fans often pay enormous sums for official photo events, only to see American fans receive free access. Others connected the incident to the group’s reportedly low U.S. ticket sales, that RIIZE tour cancelled, framing it as a publicity attempt that backfired among their most loyal audience.
Fan Reactions Grow Across Platforms
“The fan who took the photo said she was actually waiting for Sungchan but he wasn’t there, so she just stood next to Anton instead. Later she commented under the post that she’s a Sungchan fan… a known sasaeng.” (@keonho_24)
“SM is so desperate for U.S. exposure. If they really want to make it there, maybe focus on good songs instead of useless fan service that helps nothing. If they’re going to do this, they should at least treat Korean fans better — we’re the ones spending the most.” (@mungaedot)
“I’m so mad I can’t even swear anymore. Do they really think any random person in the U.S. even knows RIIZE? Stop acting up abroad and stop ignoring Korean fans. They said they were cracking down on sasaengs, but now they’re basically doing a free two-shot with one.” (@god913wing)
“Honestly, she’s right.” (added someone’s post) (under is what the post said) Nothing people have been saying lately is wrong. Asian fans spend a fortune to attend official photo events, and now in America it’s free? Everyone knows their U.S. ticket sales barely hit 35%. Sure, go perform at Tokyo Dome, good for you — but who do you think fills those seats? Korean fans. Who votes, who pays, who makes sure they win awards? Asian fans. SM needs to remember that before everyone leaves. Please announce the Seoul concert already, fix the merch sales, and start updating in KST. I’m starting to wonder if I’m even stanning a K-pop group anymore.” (@s0heeda)
These posts, some gaining tens of thousands of likes, reflect mounting frustration from Asian fans who feel sidelined as RIIZE’s focus shifts increasingly toward U.S. promotion.
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