KPop Stars You Didnt Know Support LGBTQ Rights
As some of you may already know, yesterday was National Coming Out Day! While some idols may be a little more ambiguous with their support, others are more open and straightforward. Check out this list of Korean stars who show their support not only on National Coming Out Day but everyday!
Super Junior’s Heechul
Director Kim Jho Kwang Soo, who married his boyfriend Kim Seong Hwan a few years back, sparked quite the controversial topic in Korea. When Super Junior’s Heechul was asked about the matter, he replied, “I have friends who are close to Seong Hwan. This thing called love is between two people. But if you care too much about what people say or read online, then it’s really a pity. So, just don’t care too much.” Well said, Heechul!
2NE1’s CL
The baddest female is also the biggest representative of LGBTQ culture and life among all K-Pop idols. Not only is she close friends with Jeremy Scott, an openly proud gay designer, but also she stated how she enjoys having many gay friends in an interview with ELLE Magazine: “I love them! I have so many gay friends and I love them because they’re so much fun.”
BTS’ Rap Monster
The rapper showed his love and support through what he does best – music. While listening to the popular LGBTQ anthem song “Same Love,” by Macklemore, Rap Monster left this tweet alongside it after reading the lyrics: “It’s Rap Monster. A song about homosexuality. I heard this song before but I didn’t know the lyrics, now I know them and I like the song twice as much. I recommend Macklemore & Ryan Lewis – Same Love.”
f(x)’s Amber
Amber has shown her advocacy on more than one occasion. Not only has she expressed her support for love and anger towards discrimination, such as during the Orlando Gay Club Shooting, but she also revealed in an interview that she has many gay friends, presumably back in the States.
JYJ’s Jaejoong
JYJ’s Jaejoong is actually an advocate and representative of the Regional Goodwill Ambassadors for UNAIDS with a purpose of spreading awareness for AIDS/HIV testing. He remarked, “Knowledge and awareness can help people protect themselves and break down stigma and discrimination,” the discrimination being that HIV/AIDS is only contracting by gay people. Thank you for breaking stereotypes Jaejoong!
BoA
BoA showed no fear in performing at the San Francisco Pride Festival! Check out the video for yourself.�
SHINee’s Jonghyun
Being very vocal about his mind and opinions, SHINee’s Jonghyun took a stance alongside a trans-bisexual Sungkonghoe University student. He left a message on Twitter saying, “I support you for speaking out that different doesn’t mean wrong,” in regards to her protest about acceptance in Korea.
IU
The lovely little star is actually close friends with restaurant owner Hong Suk Chon. They have both showed their love and affection for each other on various broadcasts, showcasing a ‘brother and sister’ relationship. Hong Suk Chon even posted on his Instagram that he is “the safest oppa” for IU, which fans speculated was a reference towards his homosexuality. Other idols that are close with Hong Suk Chon include Big Bang’s Seungri and the JYJ members.
INFINITE’s Hoya
Many fans cannot forget Hoya’s role as a gay man in ‘Reply 1997.’ Although lots of controversy surrounded him taking on this role, just like B1A4’s Baro, he stated, “I heard about my role later. I personally didn’t have any bias or prejudice against homosexuality so I wasn’t really pressured about that. But my company director was a bit concerned. People around me worried that my image would be negatively affected. But I said that I really wanted to do it and asked multiple times that they allow me. I really wanted to play this role.”
Taeyeon
As many may have already saw, recently Taeyeon posted a picture of a rainbow on National Coming Out Day (Oct. 11) with the caption of a unicorn emoji. While a bit vague, many fans speculated it was her attempt at supporting people and coming out. I for one feel she is indeed supportive, just look at all the drag queens in their “Love and Girls” MV.
Jo Kwon
Jo Kwon is open-minded and a total diva, so it is no surprise that he shows his support for the LGBTQ community. While performing his role in popular musical ‘Priscilla,’ Jo Kwon shared in an interview, “Priscilla is a sensational musical and as you all know I am playing a role that happens to be a gay male. It saddens me to see the ignorance in some of the comments that close-minded people left on my personal page but I’m very much committed and in love with this role and proud to be a part of this amazing project!”
GOT7’s Jackson
The fun loving happy virus Jackson has shown his support in a rather comical way that is only unique to him. On several occasions he is noted for making comments that hint towards support in homosexuality such as “But can’t guys marry guys?” when asked about ‘We Got Married’ on a radio program.
BONUS: T-ara’s Soyeon
Those socks though! While some may be screaming, “What are THOSE?” I’m wondering where I can buy a pair!