Many K-pop idols resonate with LGBTQIA+ causes, but few can voice their support due to South Korea’s conservative stance and company policies. However, subtle gestures, like wearing Pride items or engaging with queer entertainment, hint at their solidarity. Recently, NCT‘s Kun took a bold step by publicly supporting gay marriage. This move comes at a time when South Korea grapples with its stance on LGBTQIA+ rights, making Kun‘s endorsement all the more significant.
On October 17, Kun drew attention for engaging with a post by singer-songwriter Sevn Dayz. The post celebrated Sevn Dayz‘s engagement to his partner, Harry Skyers, with photos from their Bali ceremony. Kun‘s heartfelt comment congratulated the couple, showcasing his support for marriage equality.
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Sevn Dayz, a prominent figure in both the K-pop and global music scenes, has collaborated with NCT and other SM artists multiple times. His recent work includes tracks with NCT‘s sub-unit, Dojaejung, and WayV‘s English version of “Phantom.”
Beyond professional ties, Sevn Dayz shares a close bond with many K-pop idols, especially Kun and NCT‘s Jaehyun. Fans have glimpsed their outings and hangouts on social media, with one memorable instance in June featuring Sevn Dayz, Kun, Harry Skyers, and Adrian Gram sharing a meal.
Kun is a beacon of hope
Kun‘s supportive comment on Sevn Dayz‘s engagement post deeply moved fans. His open endorsement of gay marriage and the LGBTQIA+ community, despite potential backlash due to his celebrity status, was celebrated by many. Historically, South Korea’s conservative Christian culture has resisted LGBTQIA+ acceptance. While there are no federal LGBTQIA+ rights laws, some cities have imposed restrictive regulations. Compared to neighboring democratic countries like Japan and Taiwan, South Korean society has been less inclusive. However, change is on the horizon.
South Korean lawmakers are pushing for legislation granting marriage rights to same-sex couples. This pivotal bill aims to amend the civil code’s gender-specific marriage definition, allowing same-sex couples the same privileges as their heterosexual counterparts. Additionally, the National Assembly is considering introducing civil partnerships as a marriage alternative for both same-sex and heterosexual couples.
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Without official partnership recognition, South Korea’s same-sex couples face potential discrimination, especially in areas like taxation, inheritance, and family law. A landmark decision by South Korea’s High Court earlier this year ruled that denying health insurance benefits to same-sex couples, available to heterosexual ones, is discriminatory based on sexual orientation. But despite the popularity of comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation in South Korea, its progress has been stymied by legislative inaction and resistance from a vocal minority.
Kun‘s support for marriage equality and the LGBTQIA+ community is a beacon of hope in a changing landscape. His stance not only uplifts his fans but also underscores the evolving perspectives on LGBTQIA+ rights in South Korea. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: This was brave of Kun. Source: X/@qiankun96_th.
