NewJeans member Hanni / Captured from her Instagram

Hanni of K-pop girl group NewJeans was brought to tears following a chaotic incident at Incheon International Airport last Friday, as overzealous fans overwhelmed security and created a dangerous situation.

The group was returning to Korea after attending the 9th Asia Artist Awards, or AAA, in Bangkok, Thailand, when the airport became packed with fans eager to see the members.

The trouble began as soon as NewJeans entered the airport. Large crowds rushed toward the members, with some fans breaking through security to attempt excessive physical contact, including pulling on the members' hands.

Others stayed uncomfortably close, repeatedly taking flash photos, adding to the confusion. The scene descended into further chaos with shouting and screams echoing through the airport.

Amid the turmoil, Hanni appeared visibly shaken, leaning on her fellow members and wiping away tears. Videos from the incident, which circulated online, showed her emotional reaction, sparking concern among fans.

Hanni addressed the situation last Saturday through NewJeans' newly launched unofficial social media account, reassuring fans while urging for safer interactions.

She wrote, "I'm okay now. I'm so sorry for making you worry. I love all opportunities to meet our Bunnies (NewJeans' official fan club), but I hope we can create moments where we can interact safely and comfortably without causing discomfort or dangerous situations. Please don't feel rushed."

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.