ARTMS has sparked controversy following the announcement of a collaboration with blockchain platform Abstract Chain, aimed at integrating fan voting and digital collectible features. The partnership, part of a broader Modhaus initiative launched in July 2025, was officially revealed around November 17–18.
Fans, known as Ouriis, quickly voiced strong opposition on social media X under the hashtag #Ourii_Against_Abstract_Chain. Fans argue that the crypto-based initiative conflicts with ARTMS’s core focus on music, artistic concepts, and fan engagement. Many posts emphasize that promotions, live shows, and fan interactions should take priority over blockchain ventures.
“Look, we are here for the music, the concepts, the lore, and because ARTMS members are amazing people, but we DO NOT want us or them to be associated with crypto,” one fan wrote. Others expressed concerns about Modhaus’s prior controversies involving AI and cryptocurrency, with some threatening boycotts while a minority highlighted potential funding benefits from Web3 features.
Details of the collaboration suggest that Abstract Chain will facilitate on-chain fan interactions, digital collectibles such as photocards or NFTs, and voting tied to ARTMS activities. Modhaus has yet to issue an official response to the backlash.
As the debate unfolds, the situation underscores the growing tension between K-pop fandom culture and the adoption of Web3 technologies in the entertainment industry.
Other fans also expressed their concerns and commented:
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