“Cease throwing the phrase queer baiter”

KATSEYE’s Lara is within the information after picture sales space snaps unfold on-line, exhibiting her being near an alleged man, setting off speak about whether or not they’re romantically concerned. The date of when the pictures have been taken remains to be unknown, however the pictures have already stirred heavy dialogue amongst followers and internet customers.

The story gained extra focus due to Lara’s earlier assertion about her identification. Earlier this 12 months, she brazenly stated she is queer, and the announcement was met with broad help. After this leak, some critics accused her of “queerbaiting,” claiming she used her sexuality to draw consideration whereas reportedly being linked to a person.

Nonetheless, supporters countered rapidly, noting that queerness shouldn’t be restricted to at least one gender. Many stated dismissing her reality due to who she may date displays “biphobic” considering. Followers highlighted that Lara’s orientation stays legitimate, no matter her alternative of accomplice.

“Yall must cease throwing the phrase queer baiter anyplace as a result of lara got here out as QUEER and has been talking up about homosexual rights and supporting the queer group since day one yall must wrap it up,” an X usser commented.

Quickly after, in a personal DM on Weverse, Lara responded to the picture initially posted by @yslnings on X, saying that,

“Ive simply seen this little picture being unfold that’s from a VERY very long time in the past buddies. blessings to you and your loved ones.”

Many have famous that she by no means explicitly recognized as “a lesbian” and has expressed a dislike for “labels.”

Others stated her sexuality shouldn’t be the netizens’ “enterprise,” and that folks ought to keep away from intruding into her private life.

When did KATSEYE’s Lara come out as “queer”?

Lara Raj, a rising woman group member of KATSEYE, advised followers she has identified she was queer since childhood. In March 2025, whereas interacting with followers on South Korea’s Weverse platform, she said:

“I knew I used to be half a fruitcake once I was like 8, so I actually was wanting all people. Truthfully most likely earlier than 8. Isn’t half a fruitcake such a great way to clarify it with out saying it?”

Earlier, on April 15, Lara addressed courting hypothesis linking her with fellow members Daniela and Manon by Weverse DM. She clarified she shouldn’t be romantically concerned with both, stressing their friendship and describing the thought as “incest.”

“These are so humorous. Sorry hate to be the bearer of unhealthy information me manon and dani are usually not courting one another, we are literally finest buddies…in a woman group, i feel that may really feel like incest thankyou,” the idol asserted.

Lara secured her spot in KATSEYE by the survival present The Debut: Dream Academy. She turned a part of the ultimate lineup alongside Yoonchae Jeong, Sophia Laforteza, Megan Skiendiel, Manon Bannerman, and Daniela Avanzini.