A. 35 – 38 題 Two years have elapsed since the publication of the Los Angeles Times article delving into the tragic deaths of K-pop idols Goo Hara and Sulli, yet the relevance of the article remains steadfast. The piece provided a profound examination of suicide, emphasizing the importance of resisting the urge to reduce such tragedies to a simple narrative solely attributed to the darker aspects of the K-pop industry. While it is undeniably true that female K-pop idols often confront intense public scrutiny and misogyny, it is essential to recognize that suicide is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. Although suicide contagion—the idea that exposure to suicide can increase suicidal behavior—is a legitimate concern, reducing the conversation to the darker aspects of the K-pop industry only serves to exacerbate the problem. A more effective approach involves addressing the larger sociocultural factors that contribute to mental health issues and suicidal ideation, particularly the cultural taboo surrounding mental health. Despite the progress made in destigmatizing mental health issues, mental health remains a taboo topic in many parts of the world. To move forward, it is imperative to foster a dialogue that promotes openness and actively challenges stigmatizing attitudes toward seeking help. Simply discussing suicide is insufficient; the language and approach we use are of paramount importance. As the global statistics on suicide illustrate, this issue goes beyond the Korean entertainment industry. Suicide rates remain high, and it is crucial to comprehend that suicide is a complex issue with no straightforward cause or individual to blame. By cultivating a conversation that prioritizes openness and actively challenges stigmatizing attitudes toward mental health, we can begin to make progress toward preventing tragedies like those of Goo Hara and Sulli. In conclusion, it is necessary to reiterate that suicide is a complex issue that requires a thoughtful and multifaceted approach. As we continue to grapple with the impact of these tragic deaths, we must work towards creating a culture of openness and destigmatization, both within the K-pop industry and society at large. Only then can we hope to make meaningful progress in addressing the issue of suicide and preventing future tragedies.