Just B's Bain thanks Hong Seok-cheon for paving way for LGBTQ+ in Korea
Bain, a member of K-pop boy band Just B who came out as part of the LGBTQ+ community last week, has expressed gratitude to Hong Seok-cheon, Korea's first openly-gay celebrity who came out in 2000, for paving the way for the LGBTQ+ community in the Korean entertainment industry.
On Sunday, Hong shared a thank-you message he received from Bain on his Instagram account. In the message, Bain expressed his deep appreciation, writing, 'I read about your warm encouragement and advice in a news article and was truly moved.'
Bain also acknowledged the profound influence Hong had on him: 'Thanks to you, who chose to walk a lonely and arduous path 25 years ago, I found the courage to follow a similar journey. Although I still carry fears about this path I have chosen, I feel I have the strength to move forward because of how you light up the path like a lighthouse.' Bain further added that he hopes to become someone like Hong, who can empower and influence others.
The article Bain referred to was based on a recent interview in which Hong shared his happiness upon hearing about Bain's coming out, describing it as something that should be truly celebrated.
Bain publicly came out last Tuesday during Just B's stop in Los Angeles for their "Just Odd" world tour. During the performance, Bain proudly declared that he was a part of the LGBTQ+ community and waved a rainbow flag in celebration.
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