ITZY Ryujin Faces Harsh Backlash Over HYBE Group Cover, Fans Outraged
ITZY’s Ryujin has recently found herself at the center of a heated controversy, facing severe criticism following her cover performance of a popular HYBE group’s song. This unexpected backlash has ignited a wave of anger and solidarity among her dedicated fanbase.
ITZY recently had a fan meeting.
ITZY The 5th Fan Meeting 있지 믿지, 날자! “ALL IN, MIDZY” – DAY 2
ITZY와 MIDZY가 서로의 날개가 되어준 시간 🪽
앞으로도 서로의 빛이 되어주며 있지 믿지, 날자!The time ITZY and MIDZY became each other’s wings 🪽
Being each other’s light, ITZY MIDZY, Let’s Fly!#ITZY #MIDZY… pic.twitter.com/7F55atPz8R— ITZY (@ITZYofficial) August 9, 2026
During the event, Ryujin delighted attendees with a captivating cover of “REDRED” by HYBE group CORTIS. Her performance was a highlight for many, showcasing her unique artistry and stage presence.
Ryujin of ITZY performs REDRED by CORTIS in a new video.pic.twitter.com/nbnRW8NFUE
— About Music (@AboutMusicYT) August 8, 2026
While many fans were obsessed with the cover, they were shocked to see Ryujin facing a wave of malicious hate. The internet quickly became a battleground of opinions, with a vocal minority launching unprovoked attacks.
Netizens Question ITZY’s “Relevancy” Over Cover Choice
Netizens, in particular, seized upon the opportunity to claim that ITZY had somehow lost its “relevancy” by choosing to cover a song by a junior group. Some of these critics went even further, directly attacking Ryujin’s artistic interpretation and vocal delivery of the track, questioning her choices and skill. This type of unwarranted negativity is unfortunately not uncommon in the K-Pop sphere, but its intensity towards Ryujin was notably sharp.
Fandom Rallies Behind Ryujin Amidst Unfair Criticism
this is actually so sad they used be the biggest group of 4th gen now their covering their junior’s songs for relevancy https://t.co/I2q7rJ5svl
it’s sad how much they’ve fallen tbh https://t.co/Bnv8DfayYc
— ash (semi ia) (@dear4newjeans) August 8, 2026
Itzy fell off so bad wdym you’re performing a cortis song
— karlee girl shady facts (@whimsyblackgirl) August 8, 2026
Same reaction I love the song and the choreo but she just ruined the whole thing
— 🍳 (@getaigriewithme) August 8, 2026
Netizens quickly defended Ryujin, not understanding how many groups did covers at fanmeetings or covered certain groups, but only the ITZY singer was getting backlash and hate for it. Fans pointed out the hypocrisy, highlighting that cover performances are a common and celebrated aspect of K-Pop fan meetings and concerts, often serving as a way for idols to express admiration for peers or connect with fans through diverse music. They rallied behind Ryujin, emphasizing her talent and the unwarranted nature of the criticism.
covered a song fans kept asking her to do at a fanmeeting. tf are some of you complaining about? “gen5 song for relevance” well, when you’re a great performer you’re gonna attract attention https://t.co/3jZuBSRXNV
— wyv ☆ (@killmydoubt) August 8, 2026
random idol does a cover and everyone is like oh ok good cover, but if itzy does a cover they become khia from nuguland? next time your idol does a cover what are you going to do?
if you haven’t got any compliment to say to ryujin you should should just mind your own business https://t.co/t7luhROLEK
how are y’all twisting a girl covering her favorite song into “itzy fell off so much they’re using younger groups for relevancy” this is a fanmeeting you’re supposed to cover songs you or your fans want you to do so…? https://t.co/hCC6WKmh2I
— ana (@selfcrucifxion) August 8, 2026
There was even hate towards CORTIS. This unfortunate turn saw some of the negativity spill over, targeting the junior group CORTIS, simply for being the original artists of the covered song. This secondary wave of criticism further demonstrated the irrationality and toxicity of the situation.
I love you ryujin but promoting ai music by one of the biggest industry plant is not it :/ pic.twitter.com/dZjSEb96Lm
— lis ꕤ ｡˚⋆ ReVe summer 🐚 (@yvesilens) August 8, 2026
The Broader Context of K-Pop Covers and Fan Support
The K-Pop community often celebrates covers as a sign of mutual respect and artistic appreciation within the industry. The outrage surrounding Ryujin’s “REDRED” cover, therefore, struck many as particularly unfair, underscoring the constant scrutiny idols face and the passionate defense from their devoted fandoms when they perceive injustice. Fans continue to champion Ryujin, reminding everyone of her talent and ITZY’s strong position in the industry.
