Bobby Of IKON Explains Why He Decided To Criticize BTS Rather Than EXO In 2014.

Bobby explains his decision to criticize BTS instead of EXO in 2014, fearing repercussions.

huyendo17 seconds priorUpdated March 7, 2024 1 minute read
Bobby paired up with Masta Wu on 2014’s “Come Here,” dissing BTS’ RM (then Rap Monster) and BTS (Bulletproof Boy Scouts).

Bobby rapped, “They call me a monster. You prefer a full-length mirror to an underground dungeon? I’m Won Bin in bulletproof glass if appearance is a skill.

RM later stated in an interview that he didn’t mind Bobby’s rap diss. He saw it as a friendly jab, not malicious. RM repeated Bobby’s verse at the MAMA 2014 rap fight, saying, “Hold up your shield and try to imitate my rap, you tone-deaf rapper.”

Bobby explained why he chose BTS over EXO 10 years ago in a 2024 Moneychord interview.

Bobby laughed, “At the time, people were asking, ‘Why doesn’t he dare to go after EXO?’ To be honest, I feared repercussions for criticizing EXO. I could not afford additional enemies.”

EXO was a Daesang-winning top boy group with tremendous popularity in 2014, whereas BTS was new. This somewhat explains Bobby’s choice.

The Moneychord host quipped that South Koreans don’t like rap dissing and idol admirers may not understand hip-hop culture. Rap dissing can be respectful.