DJ SODA Confronts Disturbing Harassment

South Korean luminary Hwang So-hee, renowned in the music realm as DJ SODA, courageously took to her Instagram account to recount a deeply unsettling experience she endured during her performance at an Osaka music festival on August 13th, 2023. This revelation sheds light on a troubling incident that has ignited a crucial dialogue.

Amidst the electrifying atmosphere of the festival, DJ SODA found herself grappling with an affront to her dignity, a despicable act perpetrated by some members of her audience. In a candid post, she addressed the "very important issue," accompanied by jarring images that starkly depict fans encroaching upon her personal space, brazenly touching her breasts.

Hello, I need to announce very important issue which happened today. I finished my performance at the Osaka Music Circus Festival in Japan today, and I was so shocked and scared that my hands are still shaking. In order to communicate more closely with the fans, I always get closer to the fans at the end of the gig.

At that moment, not only one but also several people suddenly touched my chest and I was helplessly sexually harassed by them.

I was so surprised and scared, but there were fans who liked me and also cried a lot, so I tried my best to finish it imperturbably. Now I'm back at the hotel however I'm still very scared, and I've never ever experienced anything like this in my 10 years as a DJ.

I'm so embarrassed and humiliated that I can't believe this incident has happened. I think it's going to be hard to get close to the fans from the stage. Good night.

@deejaysoda

In the face of this grievous violation, DJ SODA displayed remarkable resilience. Despite the anguish that marred the moment, she summoned her inner strength and continued her performance, cognizant of the innocent fans who had gathered to support her. "Even as my heart trembled with shock and fear, the tears of those who cherished me compelled me to carry on," she shared.

Yet, the ordeal did not cease with the final note of her set. In the aftermath, as she retreated to her hotel sanctuary, a lingering sense of terror clung to her. The experience had left an indelible mark on her spirit, evoking emotions she had never encountered throughout her illustrious ten-year journey as a DJ.

The trajectory of events leading to this distressing juncture traces back to DJ SODA's sincere desire to forge a genuine connection with her admirers. Drawing closer to the barricades at the culmination of her performance, she sought to bridge the gap between artist and audience.

However, what should have been an authentic exchange devolved into a nightmare, as multiple individuals crossed the boundaries of decency, subjecting her to an act of sexual harassment that defies comprehension.

The haunting images she shared with her followers speak volumes, capturing a disheartening truth that demands our collective condemnation. The disturbing visuals bear witness to fans' unfathomable disregard for consent, as they documented and perpetuated the very violation that unfolded before them. 

DJ SODA, who had approached with warmth and enthusiasm to greet her supporters, was met not with applause but with a reprehensible breach of her bodily autonomy.

This incident stands as a painful testament to the urgent need for heightened awareness, education, and a resolute commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of all individuals. Our hearts extend to DJ SODA as she navigates the aftermath of this traumatic encounter.

Her resilience and candor serve as a powerful reminder that the fight against harassment is an ongoing struggle that necessitates unwavering solidarity and concerted action.

• Source of images: DJ SODA's Instagram account (@deejaysoda)