A new DC Inside poll asked a direct question: “Which star seems to be getting more hate than their mistake deserves?” The online vote drew a lot of attention because it reflects how quickly public opinion can turn—especially when a celebrity’s usual image clashes with a controversy.
In the results announced on the 13th, Cha Eun-woo ranked No. 1, followed by Kim Soo-hyun at No. 2 and Baek Jong-won at No. 3. Other well-known names, including NewJeans, Park Na-rae, and Son Heung-min, were also mentioned by voters.
Note: This Korean celebrity poll is based on online voting and public sentiment. It is not a court ruling or an official confirmation of wrongdoing.
1) Cha Eun-woo Takes 1st Place in the Korean Celebrity Poll
Cha Eun-woo (of ASTRO) placed first with 9,175 votes (31%), making him the top answer in this Korean celebrity poll about stars who are “overly criticized.”
Why voters chose him
Cha Eun-woo has long been known for a clean, polite public image. However, he has recently faced intense scrutiny linked to a tax-related controversy that reportedly surfaced during a tax audit process. Reports described suspicions involving a large amount of allegedly underpaid tax—around KRW 20 billion.
Because the story felt so different from his usual reputation, the backlash online became especially strong. According to coverage around the issue, Cha Eun-woo later acknowledged responsibility, said the related taxes were paid, and posted an apology.
For many voters, the gap between “idol-like perfect image” and “real-world controversy” may have amplified the criticism, leading them to feel he was being attacked more harshly than necessary.
2) Kim Soo-hyun Ranks 2nd After Major Personal-Life Allegations
Actor Kim Soo-hyun came in second with 2,793 votes (10%).
What sparked the backlash
Kim Soo-hyun faced public controversy following allegations involving the late actress Kim Sae-ron, including claims about a relationship timeline and “grooming”-related accusations. As the story spread, the reaction was immediate and severe—reportedly leading to multiple advertising deals being canceled and Kim Soo-hyun pausing most activities.
Kim Soo-hyun has denied key allegations, stating that the relationship began only after the other party became an adult. The dispute has not stayed only online: reports say he has taken legal action, including seeking damages, and the conflict has continued through legal channels.
In this DC Inside poll, voters who selected him may believe the level of public punishment—lost work, reputational damage, and constant criticism—went beyond what can be fairly judged from incomplete information, rumors, or disputed claims.
3) Baek Jong-won Places 3rd Amid Food and Quality-Management Controversies
Celebrity chef and businessman Baek Jong-won ranked third with 2,429 votes (9%).
What happened
Baek Jong-won was criticized after a series of disputes tied to regional festivals and consulting for small business owners, where issues such as hygiene and quality control were raised. The controversy reportedly escalated further when complaints and accusations included things like mislabeling origin information and potential food sanitation law violations.
As the pressure grew, Baek Jong-won publicly stated he would step back from broadcast activities and focus more on business growth.
Later, reports said some of the filed cases resulted in no charges (or similar outcomes). After that, he reportedly announced plans to return to YouTube, sharing the update during a March shareholders’ meeting.
In the eyes of voters in this Korean celebrity poll, the nonstop criticism and headlines may have felt disproportionate—especially after legal outcomes did not match the harshest accusations.
Other Names Mentioned: NewJeans, Park Na-rae, and Son Heung-min
Although the poll’s top three drew most of the spotlight, several other public figures were also referenced.
NewJeans
The group NewJeans has remained in the public conversation due to ongoing tension and disagreement connected to their agency, including disputes over management and the direction of future activities. Even when fans want updates on music and performances, business conflicts can dominate headlines—often creating strong, divided reactions online.
Park Na-rae
Comedian Park Na-rae was also mentioned in connection with past controversies, including talk and rumors that affected her image. Reports suggest she has largely paused many broadcast activities in recent times.
Son Heung-min
Football star Son Heung-min appeared in the discussion as well, largely due to criticism surrounding the national team’s performance and public disappointment about results. As a team captain and top player, he often becomes a focal point when expectations are not met—even when outcomes depend on many factors beyond one person.
Why This DC Inside Poll Matters
This DC Inside poll highlights a common pattern in celebrity culture:
- A “perfect image” can lead to harsher backlash when something goes wrong.
- Online outrage spreads faster than facts, especially in cases involving allegations and unclear timelines.
- Public punishment often includes lost work and long-term stigma, which can exceed legal or factual conclusions.
Whether people agree with the rankings or not, the vote shows that many viewers feel certain celebrities are judged with extreme intensity—sometimes beyond what they believe is fair.
