It’s literally a storm in the backstage. UP10TION BITTO‘s confirmation to coronavirus is rocking the entire K-pop scene.
Today, November 30th, BITTO, member of the group UP10TION, tested positive for Covid19. BITTO was informed after his schedule on November 29th that he was in close contact with a person confirmed positive and proceeded with the examination. The results were eventually confirmed that he too was positive.
In response, UP10TION‘s agency TOP Media said, “UP10TION will be canceling all future programs and we will again do our best to manage the artists and manage the health of everyone against Coronavirus in the future.”
The problem is, the entire K-pop industry is in a state of emergency due to the BITTO’s confirmation. BITTO appeared on SBS’s “Inkigayo”, which aired on November 29th. There were no less than 18 groups on the “Inkigayo” program that day. Considering the number of idols that are the MCs and the production team, staff and officials on the site, this is huge.
In response, SBS said: “We are informed of the news from BITTO and are trying to find out if there are any people who have come into contact with the young man through the CCTV.” As a preventive measure, SBS MTV’s “The Show”, which was scheduled to air live on December 1st, has decided not to air.
Following MBC’s show “Show Music Core” on the 28th and “Inkigayo” on the 29th, with the positive confirmation of UP10TION’s BITTO, which appeared during the two days, at both shows, most of the singers who were present were waiting results after being tested for Covid19.
NA EUN of the group APRIL, which is the MC of “Inkigayo”, said: “I will take the Covid19 test today.” IZ*ONE‘s KIM MINJU, who is the MC of “Show! Music Core”, also passed the test. Lee Na Eun, who participates in various entertainment programs, and Kim Min Ju, who is due to return on December 7th, are bound to be nervous.
The group Whoo! Ah! also discontinued the recording of “Simply K-pop” which was scheduled for today. The group having changed their schedules to take the test.
AKMU and Treasure’s agency YG Entertainment also announced its position. YG Entertainment said, “So far, no one has shown any symptoms or been notified of an inspection by the quarantine authorities. The artists and accompanying staff who were present at the exhibit took preventive measures“.
SM Entertainment, Aespa and NCT U’s agency, also said that members of NCT, and AESPA, and associated staff will be tested.
Additionally, artists who have participated in music programs together, such as Stray Kids, CNBLUE, Norazo, STAYC and Natty, have already taken the Covid19 test and are awaiting results.
Another problem has arisen as a large number of singers who have made a comeback and are currently active are at risk of being infected with Covid19. There could be disruptions in various music awards ceremonies, as well as the music shows, which will air this week. “MMA” and “MAMA”, which are due to take place this week, are watching closely for any changes.
With the risk of infection by Covid19 lurking within the K-pop scene, the safety of all artists and staff of the various shows remains a priority.
Journalist: Shawn
Translator: Shawn
Source: TOP MEDIA
