When it comes to Korean culture, many international fans have praised idols for their greeting culture and manners. When idols interact, it is common to see them greeting each other politely, depending on the seniority, and a bow normally accompanies it.
One idol who has recently gained attention for talking about the topic of politeness and greetings in the industry is Stray Kids‘ leader Bang Chan.
Since Stray Kids debuted, the members have always been praised for their manners towards other idols, whether senior or junior. No matter where they go, they always gain attention for being polite and showcasing their true personalities.
During a recent live broadcast, Bang Chan gained attention for his comments about the art of greeting and the respect amongst idols recently. Bang Chan couldn’t stop praising LIGHTSUM after their recent meeting.
Whenever we would walk by, they would be like ‘annyeonghaseyo.’ Very, very, very nice. I might sound like a boomer, but I feel like a greeting is very, very important.
— Bang Chan
The idol then explained that the concept of a greeting might seem overrated, but it means a lot to the people you are meeting and can be seen as dictating the mood of a conversation or interaction.
It’s a simple gesture, but there’s a big difference when you say ‘hi’ or if you don’t say ‘hi’ if you get what I mean. It depends on how you say that ‘hi,’ it makes the other person feel a certain way. The tone of the greet, the way you greet is really important.
— Bang Chan
Along with the way it is done, Bang Chan explained that it should be done with heart. He added that a low bow might seem effective, but it’s the feeling behind it that creates an impact.
You know how doing a fill 90-degree ‘annyeonghaseyo’ might be the proper way but I feel like putting emotion into a greeting is more important than how you actually do it.
— Bang Chan
Many idols are normally quite reluctant to call out the behavior of other idols, but Bang Chan gained attention after sharing his honest opinion on some of his experiences. Being the polite person he is, the leader didn’t share any names and instead focused on the general topic.
I’m not going to call out any names, but like sometimes, when we greet people, they will just completely ignore us. Now that, as someone who greets someone, can be a bit disappointing, can be a bit sad.
— Bang Chan
For a society that is always praised for manners, Bang Chan explained that he doesn’t expect a lot, but just an acknowledgment is the polite thing to do. Although he was speaking about idols, it is something that can relate to any aspect of life.
I feel like it’s basic manners, if someone greets you, at least give them a little reaction or greet them back.
— Bang Chan
Yet, as expected from Bang Chan, he also explained that there is always another side to the story. Before finishing up on the topic, he explained that sometimes it could be a case of them not seeing the greeting and it was an accident.
When the clip was shared on Reddit, netizens had mixed reactions. While many raised concerns about the timing being after KCON and that it could lead to speculations, netizens explained that it was the fans taking Bang Chan’s words out of context. They particularly praised the idol’s polite tone and how he acknowledged various sides to the debate.
Idols are sometimes afraid to address issues, but Bang Chan has proved that it is possible when someone can see a balanced argument and discuss the topic in a polite way.
It is one of the reasons netizens respect the idol so much. Many have explained that any misconceptions from Bang Chan’s words have come from fans misinterpreting the broadcast.
Leave a Comment