Go Min-si's School Bullying Allegations: The Full Story, Community Reactions, and Cultural Context

Who Is Go Min-si? Rising Star in Korean Entertainment

Go Min-si, born in 1995, has become a household name in Korea thanks to her distinctive acting style and memorable roles in both films and dramas. Her recent lead in the ENA drama 'Tastefully Yours' was celebrated for strong ratings and critical acclaim. Known for her relatable on-screen presence and candid personality, Go Min-si had cultivated a loyal fanbase, especially among young viewers. Her career, however, has not been without controversy. In 2021, she admitted to underage drinking after a photo surfaced online, publicly apologizing and promising to learn from her mistakes. This background set the stage for the latest, more serious allegations that have shaken both her career and the public's trust.

The Allegations: What Happened?

On May 26, 2025, an anonymous post appeared on a popular Korean online community, claiming to be written by former classmates of Go Min-si. The post accused her of a range of misconduct during her middle school years, including physical assault, extortion, verbal abuse, and even mocking students with disabilities. The accusers stated they did not want an apology or compensation but demanded that Go Min-si permanently withdraw from public activities. The post included specific details such as her pre-stage name, birth year, and school, making it easy for netizens to identify Go Min-si as the subject. The allegations quickly went viral, sparking intense debate and media coverage.

Agency Response: Swift Denial and Legal Threats

Go Min-si's agency, Mystic Story, responded within hours, issuing an official statement labeling the allegations as 'completely baseless' and announcing plans for legal action against the spread of false information. The agency emphasized that they had verified the facts through multiple channels, including Go Min-si herself, and found no evidence to support the claims. They also expressed concern about the harm such rumors could cause to both the actress and her family, urging the public to refrain from spreading unverified information. This strong stance is typical in Korea's entertainment industry, where agencies often act quickly to protect their artists' reputations.

Impact on Go Min-si's Career: Canceled Events and Public Scrutiny

The controversy had immediate professional consequences. Go Min-si canceled her scheduled appearance at a major brand event on May 29, 2025, which was also set to feature other celebrities like Kim Seon-ho and Aespa's Giselle. While the agency claimed the cancellation was to avoid disrupting the event's purpose, most observers linked it directly to the ongoing scandal. Additionally, Go Min-si reportedly reconsidered participation in interviews for her ongoing drama. The situation highlighted how quickly public opinion and industry support can shift in Korea when a celebrity faces serious allegations, regardless of whether they are proven.

Community Reactions: Online Debates and Fandom Dynamics

Korean online communities such as TheQoo, Nate, Instiz, and DC Inside exploded with discussion after the allegations surfaced. Comments ranged from outright condemnation—some users called for Go Min-si's permanent retirement—to skepticism about the credibility of anonymous posts. On TheQoo, users debated whether the lack of concrete evidence undermined the accusations, while others argued that even discussing the issue could cause secondary harm to both the accused and alleged victims. Some pointed out that Go Min-si had previously admitted to underage drinking, which fueled doubts about her character, while others defended her, noting the dangers of trial by internet and the lack of due process.

Media Coverage: How the Story Spread

Major Korean news outlets including Yonhap, Chosun Ilbo, Hankyung, and Dailian quickly picked up the story, providing detailed summaries of the allegations and the agency's response. International media, such as the Times of India, also reported on the controversy, reflecting the global interest in Korean entertainment scandals. Blogs and YouTube channels further amplified the debate, with some bloggers expressing frustration at the timing—pointing out that such scandals often emerge just as a star's new project is gaining momentum. Others drew parallels to previous bullying scandals in K-pop and K-drama, noting the pattern of anonymous posts, rapid public backlash, and agency denials.

Cultural Insights: Why School Bullying Allegations Matter in Korea

In Korea, school bullying (hakpok) is a deeply sensitive issue, with public figures held to especially high moral standards. The country has seen a wave of similar scandals in recent years, often resulting in career-ending consequences for those accused—sometimes even before any concrete evidence is presented. This phenomenon is partly driven by the intense scrutiny of celebrities and the power of online communities to shape public opinion. Korean fans are known for their passionate support but also for demanding accountability from their idols. International fans may find it surprising how quickly careers can be derailed by unproven allegations, reflecting both the strength and volatility of Korean fandom culture.

Fandom and Cancel Culture: The Double-Edged Sword

The Go Min-si case illustrates the double-edged nature of Korean fandom. While fans can elevate a star to great heights, they can also turn quickly when trust is broken or allegations emerge. The rapid spread of rumors, combined with the expectation that celebrities serve as role models, creates a high-pressure environment. Some fans on platforms like Pann and Efem Korea expressed disappointment but urged caution, emphasizing the need for verified facts before passing judgment. Others, however, argued that even the possibility of such behavior should not be tolerated. This split reflects broader debates in Korean society about forgiveness, accountability, and the role of public figures.

Looking Ahead: What Comes Next for Go Min-si?

As of June 2, 2025, Go Min-si's future remains uncertain. Her agency continues to deny all allegations and threatens legal action, while online debate shows no signs of slowing. The outcome will likely depend on whether any concrete evidence emerges or if additional testimonies surface. Regardless, the scandal has already left a mark on her career and public image. For international fans, the case offers a window into the unique pressures faced by Korean celebrities and the powerful influence of online communities in shaping the narrative. Whether Go Min-si can recover will depend not only on the facts but also on the shifting tides of public opinion and the resilience of her fandom.