K-pop singer-songwriter eaJ, formerly of Day6, has called out artists in the industry for staying silent on world atrocities — suggesting that speaking up is a matter of choice, not contract.
Over the weekend, the musician posted on social media after receiving multiple comments from fans asking him to address the ongoing civil war in Sudan. Many of those messages, he noted, came from fans of BTS, who have not made public statements on current global conflicts.
“I am learning and posting more about Sudan as of late,” eaJ wrote on X . “It does disappoint me a tiny bit seeing the profile pictures though :/ I really think we can make the world a better place if you commented on their posts as well.”1
In follow-up posts, eaJ said that to his knowledge, South Korean labor law and standard entertainment contracts do not prevent performers from commenting on humanitarian or political issues.
“Restricting freedom of speech in a working environment is illegal in South Korea, or at least that’s what I was told by one of the team execs during my residency,” he wrote. “Could have changed but I doubt it.”
When a fan suggested that some artists’ record labels may have restrictions based on political affiliations, eaJ pushed back:
“That has literally nothing to do with what is allowed to be said and not. At this point, it is a choice. They have the right to their own choices but… you can say whatever you want to say legally and there can be no repercussions.”
K-pop’s global footprint now extends well beyond music charts. Industry reports estimate its worldwide value at roughly $14 billion, with major agencies like HYBE generating hundreds of millions annually through tours, merchandise, and fan-club sales. A single arena tour can bring in over $150 million in ticket revenue, while merchandise can add tens of millions more.
If even a fraction of that spending were redirected toward humanitarian causes, the collective impact could be substantial. A 5% cut from a major tour’s proceeds, for instance, could generate $8–10 million. That level of funding could provide food and clean water for hundreds of thousands of displaced civilians, establish temporary medical clinics, or support education and rebuilding programs in regions devastated by war.
eaJ, whose real name is Park Jae-hyung, debuted as a member of Day6 under JYP Entertainment in 2015 before pursuing a solo career. Known for his outspoken and reflective presence online, he has previously discussed industry pressures and the challenges K-pop artists face under major labels.
Since leaving Day6, eaJ has continued to release independent music and maintain an active relationship with fans, often addressing both creative and social issues. Whether others in the industry will echo his call to speak up may determine how K-pop’s image evolves beyond the stage.
As a side note, eaJ is preparing to launch his Asia tour later this month, with stops in:
- Nov. 13 – Seoul, South Korea (Love In Seoul Festival)
- Nov. 16 – Manila, Philippines (Samsung Hall)
- Nov. 19 – Singapore (Scape The Ground Theatre)
- Nov. 21 – Jakarta, Indonesia (Basket Hall GBK)
- Nov. 23 – Bangkok, Thailand (Centerpoint Studio)
