5th Gen Group Allegedly Forced To Apologize After Sending Abuse Distress Signal 

Following widespread concern over possible abuse, FANTASY BOYS’ Minseo and Hanbin have issued statements, but fans are still worried.

In a recent live stream, viewers noticed Minseo making a hand gesture that appeared to be an international distress signal. Created during the COVID-19 lockdowns as a way for victims to silently let video call participants know they were in an abuse situation, the gesture involves showing the palm to the camera, tucking the thumb, and trapping it in the fingers.

Minseo wasn’t the only member to raise alarm, as Hanbin was also spotted making the same signal during a music show ending fairy pose. Meanwhile, multiple members had shared concerning messages on fan platforms about their difficult working conditions.

5th Gen Group Show Signs Of Abuse, Alarm Fans With Distress Signals

After the situation escalated rapidly across social media with international and Korean netizens, both idols addressed the controversy on the fan communication app Bubble.

In an unexpected apology, Minseo asked fans not to worry about what happened in the live broadcast, explaining that he was “extremely exhausted.” Minseo went on to say that he “didn’t mean anything the way it might have come across” and apologized for any concern he had caused.

I’m currently recovering, so please don’t worry too much. I’m really sorry for making you all worry so much.

I think a lot of people were shocked by the recent live broadcast, so I felt I needed to explain. During the live stream that day, I was extremely exhausted, both physically and mentally, and I didn’t mean anything the way it might have come across. I never intended to cause any misunderstandings, but things escalated way more than I expected, and I was honestly really shocked too.

I’m truly sorry for causing concern and distress. I feel like I’ve hurt and worried many people, and I deeply regret that. From now on, I’ll do my best to act with more care and responsibility. I’m sorry.

— Minseo

Hanbin, meanwhile, assured fans that he is “totally fine,” stating that his music show hand gesture was a misunderstanding.

You’re all worrying about me a lot, but I’m totally fine!!!

I heard people are talking about the music show “ending fairy” thing, but that’s not what it was. I was just caught off guard all of a sudden and got flustered, so I kind of fumbled and stuttered.

— Hanbin

Fans, however, have expressed skepticism and worry about the timing and nature of the messages. Many believe that the group’s agency, PocketDol Studio, may have pressured Minseo and Hanbin into making statements to calm the controversy.

I'm not a fan, but this should raise red flags to their fans. If anything, this message would make me worry even more because this tells me their company is aware of the attention this issue is getting and are forcing them to make statements. Also, where is the member Minseo?

— Nia (@Rickelle_17) May 4, 2025

Others have pointed out that Minseo’s apology did not mention the hand signal directly, leading them to believe that his statement doesn’t mean he’s not in need of help.

notice how minseo keeps apologising for making us worry but isn't saying anything about the sign? it was clearly intentional

— ana ♡‧₊˚ (@binisticc) May 5, 2025

PocketDol Studio has yet to release any official statement addressing the situation or the allegations of abuse.