'We will protect our fans' identities' - K-pop concert organiser

South Korean K-pop outfit, B1A4 who caused a stir after one of its member allegedly 'harassed' several female fans during a meet-and-greet session held at KL Live sent the social media mill into overdrive following a YouTube video uploaded on Sunday.

Organised by TGM Events, the 'episode' led Youth and Sport Minister, Khairy Jamaluddin writing a caustic yet casual remark on the types of men Malaysian women should look out for: KJ wrote: K-Pop acts ain't masculine...look for tall, dark, handsome men instead.

Astro AWANI published an article following the buzz created on social media since the video leaked on YouTube. Subsequently, hashtag #menentangkejahatankpop is trending.

Below is the official statement released by the concert organiser to the public as can be found on their Facebook page:

We have been made aware of the attention that certain parts of the programme of the aforementioned event have been getting from certain media.

As an events organizer, we feel that it is our responsibility to clarify in explanation on the events that occurred out of respect to B1A4, their management and most of all, the BANAs who are the fans of B1A4.

1. Fans were selected at random, based on questions that they posted on a message board with only their first name. The artist, artist management and organiser did not know who the selected fans were until they were brought on stage.

2. It is not part of standard protocol that KPOP artists would get up close and personal with fans. However, as this was a specialised fan meeting event, the programme was tailored towards fan engagement and interactivity.

Before the event in question took place, the MC instructed the fans to not touch or get too close to the members of the group. Upon revealing of the parody clip to be acted out, the group members asked and clarified with the selected fans if they were uncomfortable with the activity. However, the fans gave consent on stage, in front of a "live" audience.

3. As a company run primarily by women, we do not and never will condone molestation or sexual harassment as alleged by the media outlet. The terminology used was taken out of context and it is extremely disappointing to us to witness an act of such irresponsible journalism.

4. We do not discriminate against any fan based on their race and religion. Therefore, our programmes are tailored to the preferences of our general target audience. It is not within our authority or jurisdiction to restrict fans from activities that they willingly partake in.

5. We do not condone online harassment. Therefore, we absolutely will not release any information on the fans involved. We believe in the protection of their privacy and their physical and psychological wellbeing.

We apologise in all sincerity for the problems caused to the artist and their fans caused by these reports. In future events, we will take into consideration the cultural and religious implications of the interaction between fans and artists.