G‑DRAGON officially wrapped up his World Tour Übermensch with three encore shows at Seoul’s Gocheok Sky Dome from December 12 to 14. According to Galaxy Corporation, the tour drew approximately 825,000 attendees worldwide, with 56,100 fans attending the final Seoul shows alone (18,700 per night). With 39 performances, Übermensch stands as the largest solo tour of G‑DRAGON’s career, reaffirming the enduring appeal of the legendary K‑pop artist despite several years of intermittent activity.
However, the spotlight on record attendance was quickly overshadowed by a major backlash stemming from allegations of rough treatment toward Chinese fans during the Seoul concert encore nights, igniting a storm across social media platforms in China—one of G‑DRAGON’s most influential fan markets. The controversy forced Galaxy Corporation to issue a formal apology in an effort to stabilize the situation.
Allegations from numerous Chinese fans claim that security personnel used excessive force during ticket checks and crowd control at the venue entrances. Viral videos and images circulated online appear to show fans being shoved, dragged, or knocked down as they attempted to enter the stands, some leaving visible bruises afterward. More serious accusations allege that attendees, even after entering the venue, were pulled out, had wristbands torn off, and had tickets confiscated under suspicion of buying from scalpers—despite presenting valid documentation. Some fans also reported being temporarily detained as security held their passports, causing panic amid the crowded event.
Fan Interaction Clip Sparks Additional Controversy
In parallel, a short video capturing a moment between G‑DRAGON and the audience quickly became a focal point of debate on Weibo, amassing over 50 million views in a short time. In the clip, a Chinese fan shouted “I love you” in Mandarin. Although G‑DRAGON reportedly heard and responded verbally in Korean with a relatively neutral expression, many Chinese netizens interpreted his reaction as indifferent or dismissive, alleging that he “pretended not to understand.” Conversely, international fans and some Korean supporters argued the moment was a typical stage interaction, misinterpreted due to language and performance context.
Management Responds Amid Escalating Criticism
Under mounting pressure, Galaxy Corporation acknowledged shortcomings in security management and apologized to affected attendees. The company stated that stricter controls were implemented to combat ticket scalping—a recurrent issue throughout the tour—but conceded that some staff crossed acceptable boundaries. Galaxy Corp pledged to conduct an internal investigation and compensate fans whose tickets were unjustly canceled or who suffered physical harm. Reports also confirmed that Seoul police intervened during the December 14 show, detaining several individuals. The company later clarified that those arrested were alleged scalpers and fraudsters, not ordinary fans, framing the action as necessary to safeguard the concert environment.
Old Rumors Reignite Amid the Chaos
The controversy deepened further as old dating rumors involving G‑DRAGON and Korean beauty pageant runner‑up Kim Go Eun resurfaced at the worst possible time. Although Galaxy Corporation previously denied a romantic relationship in March 2024, reports of Kim Go Eun’s presence in the VIP section during the Seoul concerts fueled speculation. Given the heightened sensitivity following the security incidents, some interpreted her appearance as a public “claiming of territory,” intensifying online backlash.
Previously overlooked hints—including similar photos taken in the same studio, shared accessories, joint appearances at a Paris Saint‑Germain match in Japan, elevator check‑in snapshots, and sunset photos from matching angles—were resurrected by fans as “evidence” of a closer relationship. Additional speculation linked Kim Go Eun to G‑DRAGON’s long‑time inner circle and entourage, further fueling debate.
Fansites Criticize Management, Some Shut Down
High‑profile fansites, especially Chinese “master” (major fan stations) active since the BIGBANG era, voiced fierce criticism of how the crisis was managed. Several announced temporary suspensions or permanent closures, citing dissatisfaction with how G‑DRAGON’s personal privacy and public image were handled. Critics accused Galaxy Corporation of focusing too heavily on technology and AI projects while failing to properly manage artist branding and crisis response during a critical comeback period.
What’s Next for G‑DRAGON and BIGBANG?
Galaxy Corporation maintains that G‑DRAGON and Kim Go Eun are merely close acquaintances. However, after the succession of controversies—from live performance critiques and alleged fan mistreatment to personal life speculation—many fans are questioning that narrative. Analysts warn that the cumulative fallout could impact BIGBANG’s planned activities in 2026, posing a significant challenge for the agency as it navigates future promotions for G‑DRAGON and the group.
