Headline on Article About ‘Excessive Fandom Spending’: “NewJeans Umbrella Costs 120,000 Won”

NewJeans umbrellas are being sold online for 50,000 to 120,000 won. This is several times the price of a regular compact umbrella, which typically costs around 10,000 won. A seller explained, “These were obtained from a pop-up store in Japan, so there’s an additional markup. They are all limited editions,” adding, “The price fluctuates according to the market.”

Professor Lee Eun-hee of the Department of Consumer Science at Inha University advised that while it’s fine to purchase and use products endorsed by a favorite singer or actor, caution is needed as it can lead to excessive spending. Professor Lee added, “Targeting vulnerable consumers such as teenagers or the elderly is not desirable,” and “I hope companies consider ‘usefulness’ when conducting marketing.” Regarding merchandise sold at high prices, she said, “This is exploiting fans’ devotion,” explaining, “It’s appropriate for fans to feel the price is fair when purchasing merchandise, but pricing items at several times their value is an issue that needs to be addressed from the perspective of fair trade practices.”