Korean Netizens Debunk ITZY Ryujin’s “Middle Finger” Scandal

A seemingly innocent day out in Sydney took an unexpected turn for ITZY members Ryujin and Yeji, propelling them into the center of online controversy and debate.

| @iamfinethankyouandryu/Instagram

The crux of the matter was a fan-captured video showing the pair in front of the iconic Sydney Opera House during their Born To Be tour. A momentary gesture by Ryujin — interpreted by many as her giving the middle finger — became the hot topic of discussion. Especially when Yeji appeared to quickly reprimand her, leading to a burst of laughter between the two.

[Video could not be displayed]| Pann Nate

This snippet circulated rapidly, igniting a flurry of reactions across social media and community forums, notably on Pann Nate, where both fans and critics dissected the incident. ITZY later posted an Instagram video, which confirmed the duo’s identities and added fuel to the fire of speculation.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ITZY (@itzy.all.in.us)

Yet, as the internet would have it, the story took a turn. A deeper dive by Korean netizens into the incident, propelled by a viral post on Pann, has seemingly cleared the air. With over 82,000 views and more than 67 comments, the post presents a clearer picture of the incident, suggesting Ryujin was actually making a finger heart, not flipping the middle finger.

| Pann Nate

Upon seeing the clearer view, netizens jumped to Ryujin’s defense. Many have accused fans who were criticizing her for the clip of having double standards between male and female idols. Others have condemned those who wanted to create a mess out of allegedly nothing.

• “Anyone can see that’s a finger heart!”
• “Wow, this is the real deal. Enough with the media manipulation!”
• “If you see the original video, it’s obvious. Some people just want to stir trouble.”
• “There was a vlog camera in front too. It was just a finger heart.”
• “Clearly, it’s a rumor. I don’t understand how a vague video led to such accusations.”

Top comments. | Pann Nate

Either way, the majority seem to agree that the incident was a harmless joke between friends, not meant to offend fans or bystanders.