TripleS’ Zhou Xin Yu Sparks Controversy with “One China” Comments, Revealing Korea’s Identity Crisis

The political remarks made by Chinese idol Zhou Xin Yu in a fan community have triggered significant waves of reaction within Korean society. Recently, through the fan communication platform fromm, Zhou Xin Yu stated that “Macau originally belongs to China,” adding that “Hong Kong and Taiwan do too.” In response to fans expressing concern, she retorted, “Why should I get scolded? Did I say something wrong?” She further added, “Those who disagree shouldn’t use my fromm account.” The “One China” principle is a doctrine promoted by the Chinese government, asserting that regions such as Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau are all part of China, with only the Chinese government being the legitimate authority. As Zhou Xin Yu’s comments spread online, controversy erupted. Netizens criticized her, saying things like “Why make political statements and yell at fans?” “Such remarks are inappropriate given her activities in Korea,” and “She lacks basic courtesy toward her fans.” Criticism intensified especially because her same group includes member Nien, who holds Taiwanese citizenship. TripleS is a multinational group consisting of 24 members. The reason Korean society reacted so violently to these comments goes beyond simply a lack of political sensitivity; it appears to reflect a collective sense of anxiety within Korean society. This stems from multiple factors, including China’s rapid rise, cracks in the U.S.-centric order, and ongoing confusion regarding the country’s own identity. This anxiety manifested intensely over the fact that a Chinese national made the remarks in Korea. Another irony exposed by this incident is the gap between “economic reality” and “emotional identity.” On one hand, there were angry voices demanding she be expelled, while on the other hand, there was resignation suggesting she would fare better back in China. This implies an unconscious belief that Korea will only suffer losses. Korean society adopts a contradictory attitude—needing Chinese celebrities due to the influence of the Chinese market, inflow of Chinese capital, and the potential for global K-pop expansion—while simultaneously rejecting their political views. Fundamentally, this situation clearly exposes Korea’s identity crisis. In the absence of answers to questions such as what diplomatic strategy to adopt between the U.S. and China, how to restructure the economy, and how to secure cultural leadership, even minor external stimuli quickly lead to internal identity confusion.