“Terrifying?!” — Korean Netizens React To SHINee Key’s Comments About TheQoo

When we talk about celebrities, we often picture them living in a different world, seemingly oblivious to the heated debates on the internet and, specifically, to the controversies of Korean online communities. However, SHINee’s Key recently debunked this notion, and it’s got netizens talking.

| @bumkeyk/Instagram

In a recent episode of 1theK Originals on YouTube, Key made a surprising revelation that left many in a state of both amazement and amusement. Given the task of trawling the web to find topics about himself, he stumbled upon the popular Korean community site, TheQoo. When asked if he was familiar with what transpires on the site, Key nonchalantly equated it to Bestiz, a now-obsolete forum that once reigned supreme as the go-to place for K-Pop enthusiasts.

I do [know what happens on TheQoo].

— SHINee’s Key

“Q. Do you know what happens on TheQoo?” | 1theK Originals/YouTube “I do.” | 1theK Originals/YouTube

The comparison drew attention not only for its accuracy but also because it showcased Key’s familiarity with the ever-evolving dynamics of the Korean internet landscape.

I know about it [TheQoo].

—  SHINee’s Key

“This is the new Bestiz, isn’t it?” | 1theK Originals/YouTube “I knew about it.” | 1theK Originals/YouTube

The immediate reaction from netizens, particularly those on TheQoo, ranged from hilarity to sheer bewilderment. Comments like “This gives me the chills, seriously. LOLOL.” and “LMAO. Literal goosebumps.” encapsulate the shock factor of Key’s revelation. Indeed, the idea that a K-Pop idol, particularly one as popular and busy as Key, would be privy to the inner workings of such online communities was mind-boggling to many.

| SM Entertainment

The entertainment world has witnessed idols acknowledging online platforms occasionally, but Key’s comment struck a chord because of how directly he addressed it — many admired his tech-savvy nature.

| SBS Inkigayo

However, what resonated the most was the nostalgia tied to his mention of Bestiz. The throwback to a time when idols were captured scrolling through Bestiz reinforces that while platforms may change, idols’ curiosity about their online portrayal probably remains consistent.

TBH, Bestiz was such a great online community for K-Pop fans — like theqoo is now — because it had a lot of users talking about idols and shows. LOL. Once, I even saw my bias scrolling through Bestiz on some variety show.

— Netizen on TheQoo

| @bumkeyk/Instagram

While many were taken aback, and some even termed the revelation as “terrifying,” it’s yet more proof of the ever-blurring lines between celebrities and their fans in today’s digital age. It’s a two-way street where fans get an unprecedented look into their idols’ lives, and the idols, in turn, are just as invested in understanding their fan base.

• This gives me the chills, seriously. LOLOL.
• I don’t doubt it. Key looks like he’d know his way around the internet. Haha.
• LMAO. Literal goosebumps.
• WTH? How does he know so well…?
• Such an on-point comparison, too. LOL.
• Are you on theqoo, too, Key?
• TBH, Bestiz was such a great online community for K-Pop fans — like theqoo is now — because it had a lot of users talking about idols and shows. LOL. Once, I even saw my bias scrolling through Bestiz on some variety show.
• Oh, gosh…
• Terrifying?!

| TheQoo

Key’s candid acknowledgment of TheQoo and Bestiz serves as a gentle reminder that stars are more in-tune with the digital world than we might think. And that could be a warning as much as it is a fun new fact to learn about the SHINee star.