SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu Sparks Outrage Over Alcohol Shot at Austin Concert

UPDATE: SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu has ignited a firestorm of controversy following an incident at their concert in Austin, Texas, on October 22, 2025. The idol took an alcohol shot with a fan after being prompted during the performance, leading to heated discussions about concert etiquette and perceived favoritism towards Western fans.

This incident unfolded as SEVENTEEN performed the first of two nights in Austin, part of their ongoing Right Here world tour. Eyewitnesses reported that a fan held up a sign requesting Mingyu to share a drink, which he did, leaving many in the audience both shocked and delighted. However, the backlash was swift, as fans raised concerns over the safety and appropriateness of such actions.

Critics argue that this behavior stands in stark contrast to the stricter guidelines imposed on fans in Southeast Asia, where Pledis Entertainment has been accused of enforcing more stringent rules. Just before the Southeast Asia leg of the tour, Pledis issued a fan etiquette notice emphasizing restrictions on gifts and behavior. Fans in SEA countries felt targeted by these guidelines, particularly after witnessing more lenient treatment during the U.S. concerts.

“Many feel that the notice was directed towards us with the timing,” one fan tweeted, highlighting the discrepancies between experiences in different countries.

Fans have accused SEVENTEEN and Pledis of showing a preference for Western audiences, with some labeling the disparity as a form of racism. They argue that while Western fans enjoy hugs and gifts from the members, SEA fans are left feeling neglected and monitored. “It comes across as them chasing Western validation,” one user expressed.

In response, some fans have defended SEVENTEEN, pointing out that the group has not consistently engaged in fan service even in their home country of South Korea or other Asian nations. “If we want to talk about unfair treatment, we should note how they mainly toured Korea and Japan from 2022 to 2024,” a fan remarked, providing context to the ongoing debate.

The divide between fan experiences has prompted a growing conversation about cultural sensitivity and the responsibilities of global entertainers. As SEVENTEEN continues their tour, all eyes will be on how the group navigates this controversy, especially with upcoming stops in Southeast Asia.

What happens next is crucial—will Pledis respond to the outcry? Will Mingyu address the incident directly? Fans are eagerly watching for updates as discussions about concert etiquette and treatment of international fans intensify.

This ongoing debate not only impacts SEVENTEEN’s reputation but also raises important questions about how global acts engage with their diverse fanbases. As the situation develops, it’s clear that the implications of Mingyu’s actions will resonate far beyond just one concert.