Amid South Korea's ongoing political unrest following the controversial declaration and subsequent repeal of martial law, public figures are finding themselves under increased scrutiny. Celebrities voicing support for the protests against President Yoon Suk Yeol have been widely praised, while those who remain silent—or appear detached from the situation—are drawing criticism.

The latest celebrity in the spotlight is ASTRO’s Cha Eunwoo, whose recent Instagram post has ignited a heated online debate. On December 6, the singer and actor shared a series of photos from his recent VOGUE Koreaphotoshoot. While such posts are common for promoting projects, the timing of the update struck a nerve with some netizens, who criticized him for appearing out of touch with the nation's current political crisis.

Netizens React

The comments section under Cha Eunwoo’s post quickly filled with mixed reactions, with many expressing disappointment:

• “In a time when the country is struggling… Why post something like this now?”
• “At least try to read the room…”
• “Dongmin, are you really this clueless?”
• “You’re like a peach that looks good but tastes bad.”
• “Get a clue! Don’t you even watch the news?”

Supporters Speak Out

Despite the criticism, some fans rallied in defense of Eunwoo, arguing that he is not obligated to address political issues publicly.

“He hasn’t done anything wrong or taken a stance against the protests,” one fan commented.
“Posting about his work doesn’t mean he’s unaware of the situation,” added another.

Supporters highlighted that the idol’s decision to remain silent should not automatically be interpreted as indifference.

The Context Behind the Backlash

South Korea is currently experiencing heightened political tensions, with protests erupting nationwide demanding President Yoon’s impeachment. Public figures have increasingly found themselves under scrutiny, as the public looks to them for solidarity or leadership during this volatile time.

What’s Next for Cha Eunwoo?

While some believe Cha Eunwoo’s post was ill-timed, others argue it reflects an expectation placed on celebrities to navigate an impossible balancing act between their personal lives, careers, and public expectations. Whether this incident affects his image long-term remains to be seen.

What are your thoughts on the controversy surrounding Cha Eunwoo’s post? Should public figures feel obligated to address national crises, or should they be free to maintain their professional priorities? Let us know in the comments.