Parc Jae Jung’s new fan club name sparks controversy among Park Hyo Shin fans

Singer Parc Jae Jung has come under criticism after announcing the name of his first official fan club, with some fans arguing that it overlaps with a long-established nickname used by fans of fellow ballad singer Park Hyo Shin.

On June 19 KST, Parc Jae Jung revealed through social media that he would be recruiting members for his first official fan club, 13 years after his debut.

“Do you remember the nickname ‘Tree Prince’ that a young fan gave me years ago?” he wrote. “After much thought, I decided to name the fan club ‘Tree (Namu)’ because I want to be your prince.”

The singer also announced plans to launch an official fan communication app and hold a mini concert on July 26 to celebrate the opening of the fan club.

However, the announcement was met with criticism rather than celebration from some K-pop fans. Park Hyo Shin’s official fan club, known as “Soul Tree,” was established 22 years ago and carries the meaning of “trees with souls” that provide comfort and support to one another. For years, Park Hyo Shin has affectionately referred to his fans as “trees” (“namu”).

Because of this association, some of Park Hyo Shin’s fans argued that Parc Jae Jung’s choice of “Namu” as a fan club name is confusing and too closely linked to an identity that has long been associated with the senior ballad singer and his fandom.

Numerous comments on Parc Jae Jung’s social media accounts have called for the name to be reconsidered or changed.

Fan club names are often considered highly sensitive within K-pop fandom culture, as they play a significant role in shaping a group’s or artist’s identity. Similar controversies have occurred in the past. For example, ILLIT initially announced “LILLYS” as its fandom name but later changed it after concerns were raised that it overlapped with a fandom name associated with Lisa.

As debate continues online, attention is now focused on whether Parc Jae Jung and his agency will address the concerns surrounding the newly announced fan club name.