Stray Kids‘ leader, Bang Chan, has been a consistent figure in the world of live broadcasts. Since 2019, fans eagerly awaited his weekly YouTube Live show, Chan’s Room, where he chatted with fans, played songs, and sometimes hosted guests. Due to the way he hosted it, STAYs came to regard the show as a safe place.

However, since May 14, 2023, the popular broadcast has been noticeably absent from the internet. This hiatus coincided with an episode in which Bang Chan shared his experiences at the Music Bank show in Paris. In that episode, the idol revealed his surprise at some of his peers not greeting their sunbaes, which he considers basic manners. 

Although he didn’t name names, fans worldwide speculated on possible culprits, with groups like IVE being mentioned. This led to some artists facing severe criticism, while Bang Chan was praised for being honest. Following the controversy, Bang Chan took to Instagram to apologize. He clarified he never intended to target specific artists and expressed regret for any offense caused.

The hiatus of Chan’s Room has led to STAYs criticizing JYP Entertainment, with many believing the company is behind the decision. A clip from a fan meeting seemed to confirm these suspicions, with Bang Chan saying, “I can’t do Chan’s Room anymore. So, uh, I actually want to, but the company said no.”

 

Did Bang Chan address the controversy?

This news ignited a firestorm of criticism towards JYP Entertainment, with plenty of fans trending hashtags like #JYPELeaderOfDisappointment, and #JYPEPROTECTSKZ. Some directed their ire at Division 1, the JYP Entertainment department in charge of managing Stray Kids. They did this with the hashtag #DIVDISBAND. Other fans mobilized protest trucks to express their anger.

In a recent twist, Bang Chan seemingly addressed STAYs’ concerns on the fan community platform Dear U Bubble. He posted a photo of himself with a towel wrapped around his head. He also wrote, “Why upload now? Because it’s my decision lol.” He further emphasized, “Everything is my decision, my rules—hahahahahahahaha.” Some believe that was his way of saying that pausing his broadcasts was his decision. Others aren’t convinced.

While some fans remain skeptical, many hope for a resolution that sees the return of Chan’s Room. A harmonious relationship between Bang Chan, Stray Kids, their management, and the fans wouldn’t go amiss, either. But only time will tell whether that’ll happen or not. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Bang Chan made fans worldwide happy through Chan’s Room, so they’re all fighting to get it back. Source: Twitter/@sweetestdua.