"This is a sad reality for idols"- Fans react as Super Junior's Leeteuk opens up about fear of judgement in Korea, prefers performing abroad

Super Junior’s leader, Leeteuk, recently expressed his apprehensions about performing in Korea, citing judgment and criticism as significant concerns. During a YouTube livestream on his official channel on November 25, 2024, the idol talked about his career, future plans, and why he feels more comfortable performing in countries like Japan and other parts of Asia.

While reflecting on his 20-year journey in the music industry, Leeteuk mentioned that the Korean entertainment scene often feels daunting, especially as he grows older. He admitted that fear of harsh criticism from Korean audiences makes the idea of solo performances in Korea overwhelming.

Instead, he finds comfort and acceptance performing abroad, where he feels his efforts are more appreciated. He stated,

"I want to have solo fanmeetings, and I keep looking at japan and overseas, I’m more comfortable there, the korean market is scary, I’m most scared of Korean, It's just that kind of feeling where you want to go where people applause."

Leeteuk explained that his concerns stem from Korea’s alleged beauty standards and societal expectations. Despite his success, he worries about being judged for continuing his music career at this stage. The idol remarked that he feels anxious about comments such as, “Why is he still performing?” or, “He’s too old for this.”

He acknowledged that these perceptions have made promoting within Korea a challenging and uneasy experience. Fans sympathized with him, noting that many idols and actors likely face similar struggles in such a demanding industry. An X user, @luryz06 wrote,

"this is a sad reality for idols, there not comfortable in their own motherland. So many criticisms thats why in overseas they release themselve they feel freee...."

Fans rallied behind Leeteuk, expressing their support and calling attention to the harsh realities faced by idols in Korea. Here are some more reactions from the artist's supporters:

"He's not just speaking as an artist, but as industry insider who has hosted dozens of programs and has met hundreds of idols. He knows Korean fans are judgmental as hell," an X user commented.

"damn korean toxicity is on another level," another fan remarked.

"That is really sad to hear. Whatever happened to enjoying music and talent. Age shouldn’t be a factor," a user wrote on X.

Another fan remarked:

"Leeteuk it’s getting off his shoulders soooo many things these months and I’m so glad to see someone talk about how things are for them internally, that society needs to change and the industry even more."

Many pointed out how the nation’s demanding standards and scrutiny often push artists toward seeking validation and comfort in international markets.

"I'm proud that he's not afraid of telling the truth tho .Also to all those kpop intl fans whom I've seen using age to degrade the artists, congrats yall are as toxic as kfans that Leeteuk mentioned," a fan commented.

"Why it's so heart breaking to watch? The look in his eyes," a netizen mentioned.

"it's so crazy bc we can actually see it happening even as non-koreans or someone who doesnt live in sk. it feels so horrible to witness it even just from the surface, what more for these idols who actually have to live with these criticisms," another user wrote.

---

More from Super Junior's Leeteuk's latest YouTube live and his desire for a more isolated, peaceful life

During the same livestream, Leeteuk later clarified that it's not that he dislikes Korea but that he finds it intimidating as a Korean himself. He wished people would recognize his hard work and dedication over the years rather than focus on his age or question his continued activity. The idol said:

"It’s not that I hate Korea—I’m Korean myself, after all. But maybe because I am Korean, I find Korea a bit uncomfortable. As a singer with 20 years of experience, I feel uneasy about appearing solo on music shows in Korea. I don’t want to hear things like, ‘He’s still doing music shows?’ or whatever. That kind of perception makes me uncomfortable."

The idol also acknowledged that his fears had led him to withdraw socially, preferring a quiet, solitary lifestyle. He shared that he avoids socializing and often isolates himself, opting for hobbies like golf and spending time at home instead.

---

As Super Junior approaches the 20th anniversary of its debut, Leeteuk remains focused on exploring opportunities abroad while maintaining his current activities.