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Fans of K-pop group ENHYPEN have voiced strong concerns after it was confirmed that member Ni-Ki will not attend the group’s upcoming offline fansign event in Shanghai on March 8. The event is part of the promotional activities for ENHYPEN’s seventh mini-album, THE SIN: VANISH, and will proceed with six members attending in person, while Ni-ki is set to participate remotely via video call.
The decision sparked an immediate response from fans across multiple platforms, with hashtags such as #FairTreatmentForNI_KI and “ENHYPEN IS 7” trending as supporters questioned the circumstances behind his exclusion. While BELIFT LAB has not released a detailed explanation, fans speculate that ongoing visa complications and heightened China-Japan political sensitivities may have influenced the arrangement.
Tensions were further amplified after recent airport photos showed Ni-ki positioned away from the main group during departures, leading some fans to express unease about potential nationality-based considerations. Others stressed that speculation should be handled cautiously in the absence of official clarification.
In response, some fans have called for the Shanghai event to be converted into a fully online format to preserve group unity, while a smaller segment announced temporary boycotts of promotional content. Despite differing approaches, the fanbase remains largely united in emphasizing ENHYPEN’s seven-member identity and the importance of equal representation.
Industry observers note that similar situations have occurred with multinational groups navigating overseas promotions, particularly in regions with strict entry regulations. However, the lack of transparent communication often fuels misunderstanding and fan dissatisfaction.
As of now, BELIFT LAB has not addressed the protests directly. Fans continue to urge the agency to provide clarity and prioritize consistency in group activities, especially during a critical promotional period.
ENHYPEN is scheduled to continue album promotions in other regions following the Shanghai event, with supporters closely watching how the agency responds moving forward.
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