“He should not be discriminated.”
Koreaboo
1 hour ago
ENHYPEN fans are expressing anger and heartbreak after one member appeared to be pushed aside during a recent group schedule, with many accusing HYBE of mistreating him because of his nationality.
| @ENHYPEN/X (formerly known as Twitter)
On the day of ENHYPEN’s departure from Incheon International Airport, the group was heading to Shanghai for an offline fan signing event as part of promotions for their seventh mini-album, THE SIN: VANISH.
However, it was already known among fans that Ni-Ki would not be able to participate in the Shanghai event due to visa issues. Amid worsening political tensions between China and Japan, Japanese nationals have reportedly been unable to receive work visas for certain activities in China.
|SBS Inkigayo
Despite this, Ni-Ki still appeared at the airport alongside the other six members, which initially reassured fans. That reassurance quickly turned into concern after photos and videos from the airport began circulating online.
ni-ki’s existence isn’t a crime. being a japanese isn’t a crime. ni-ki should not be hidden. ni-ki should not be excluded. ni-ki should not be discriminated.
TAKE ACTION NOW BELIFT. FANS ARE NOT STUPID
ENHYPEN IS 7
BELIFT RESPECT NI-KI#FairTreatmentForNI_KI@BELIFTLAB @enhypen pic.twitter.com/7SL4dMPNdd
— kira (fan account) (@allforchulsoo) January 31, 2026
In the footage, Ni-Ki is seen standing behind a pillar while the other members pose openly for reporters and cameras. He reportedly remained there for most of the time, walked behind the group, and kept his gestures and expressions minimal. The scene stood out enough that even reporters on-site appeared confused by his behavior, further fueling speculation.
this gotta be the most heartbreaking scene ive seen in a while…. pic.twitter.com/QxgU6J9VIj
— 샐마•𝗘𝗡╸ (@ahgasela) January 31, 2026
ni-ki hiding BEHIND the pole on an airport departure all bcs of his nationality. this is sick
you hit a new level of low BELIFT. jpn engenes should start protesting to HYBE ASAP
ENHYPEN IS 7
BELIFT RESPECT NI-KI#FairTreatmentForNI_KI@BELIFTLAB @enhypenpic.twitter.com/Da88jwG93T
— kira (fan account) (@allforchulsoo) January 31, 2026
Fans were quick to point out that while visa restrictions explain why Ni-Ki could not travel, they do not explain why he appeared to be physically hidden from view at a public airport. Many questioned whether this was a personal decision, a company instruction, or an attempt to avoid controversy amid political sensitivities. HYBE and BELIFT LAB have not released any explanation or clarification regarding the situation.
oh fck this ni-ki is coming with them but hiding behind 💔 how is this fine?! pic.twitter.com/Jol5F89uvJ
— 달 (@nksunbaem) January 30, 2026
Not to overanalyze, but did the company ask nk to keep it low today?
He stood behind the pole the whole time, even the reporter asked, “why are you hiding?” and was last to walk, keeping his gestures very minimal…
I can’t help but feel worried about him given everything that’s… pic.twitter.com/mOx93gICPR
— •・PG・• 🐆 fan account (@Puma24Girl) January 31, 2026
the way the reporter even asked why ni-ki was hiding 😭 like “why is he hiding” “Ni-ki~~shiiii” 😭 NANGIS BANGET YA ALLAH NANGISSSSSS😭 @BELIFTLAB CONGRATS for being the most foolish and evil agency in K-pop history, I HATE U SO MUCHpic.twitter.com/RRN1terKic
— 사💫 (@evanndeer) January 31, 2026
The lack of communication has only intensified fan frustration. Many ENGENEs have stated they will avoid engaging with official content that sidelines any member, emphasizing that ENHYPEN is a seven-member group and should always be treated as such. Others expressed deep worry about Ni-Ki’s emotional well-being, noting how isolating the moment appeared.
ENHYPEN