Entertainment
BINI Issues Apology After Video Sparks Grooming-Related Backlash From Fans
Published on May 8, 2025
BINI has apologized after a viral video sparked a heated backlash and dismay from a lot of their fans.
The P-pop girl group's statement was released less than a day after the video began making rounds online. The clip appeared to show BINI members Jhoanna, Colet, and Stacey in a casual setting with P-pop boy group GAT members Ethan David and Shawn Castro. Some viewers claimed that a sexually suggestive gesture was made during the video and raised concerns about the nature of the conversation.
According to comments circulating online, the video included a discussion about a rumored situation involving a minor. Viewers pointed out that the tone of the exchange appeared lighthearted, which drew criticism from many who felt the topic should have been treated with more sensitivity.
"The video shows a private moment of us with friends. We definitely did not intend to hurt anyone in the process. We offer no excuse for our actions, reactions, and choice of words. We take full accountability," BINI said in their statement released evening of May 8, 2025, on all of their social media platforms.
"Nagkamali kami," they strongly noted in their statement.
As they take full accountability for their actions, the group also asked for forgiveness and a chance to reflect on their mistakes from the public. "We humbly ask for a chance to reflect on and learn from our mistakes and continue to work on becoming better versions of ourselves," the statement read.
As of writing, their official statement has garnered 70,000 reactions on Facebook alone. Fans have also flocked to the comments section, writing some mixed reactions to the incident that left almost all Blooms disappointed and hurt.
The post that triggered more reactions from fans read, "Joking about SA [sexual assault] and grooming??? Women empowerment my ass. HYPOCRISY AT ITS FINEST #BINI"
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Photo: Instagram/bini_ph
Fans React To BINI's viral video with GAT members
BINI's fandom is easily one of the most active in the P-pop scene. They're quick to engage with every social media post, show up at every event, and speak out on any issue involving the group. So naturally, the viral incident involving Jhoanna, Stacey, and Colet didn't go unnoticed.
As soon as the video gained traction online, several users—particularly on X (formerly Twitter)—criticized BINI, with some alleging that the group appeared to make light of a situation involving a 13-year-old girl and an older male friend.
Its biggest fanbase in the Philippines, BLOOM PHILIPPINES, had already aired their sentiments as soon as the video went viral. "We respectfully urge BINI and their management to openly address this issue, demonstrate responsibility, and reaffirm their commitment to empowering and uplifting women," their statement read.
While some users have expressed support for BINI and appreciated the group’s decision to issue a statement, others remain disheartened and are calling for further steps. Among the ongoing conversations are requests for a more personal response from the three members seen or heard in the video. Some fans have also questioned why all eight members signed the apology, including those who did not appear to be involved in the viral clip.
See some fan reactions below:
Kate runs on caffeine and K-drama cliffhangers. She also thrives on plot twists—on screen, on the page, and, of course, in the group chat.