Words: Zahra Baz

Each week, the leader sits down to share and listen to music recommendations, and gives advice and encouraging words to viewers.

Despite busy schedules, Bang Chan has consistently provided fans from around the world with weekly comfort from the beginning of January 2019.  Each week, the leader sits down to share and listen to music recommendations, gives advice and encouraging words, and, overall, just chats about different elements of his life.

Here at That Fangirl Life, we’ve watched all 140 episodes – and loved every minute of it – to bring you five of the most comforting moments from Chan’s Room.

1. You deserve love

“It doesn’t matter what country you’re in, you deserve love.  It doesn’t matter what you are, what you choose to be, you deserve love”.

I think it’s safe to say that we all need reminders here and there that we’re loved.

Especially over the last few years, when the world has seemed upside down and our friends and family feel just a little out of reach, Bang Chan came in with the message that, regardless of where or who you are, you are loved.

Said in Episode 84, which aired on December 13th 2020.

2. Your voice is always precious

“If you’re too shy, embarrassed, if you’re not confident when speaking in front of others, I hope you don’t pay too much attention to that. Try to speak comfortably because your voice is always precious”.

Anxiety is not a topic Bang Chan has shied away from during his V-Live’s; he’s felt comfortable enough with fans to share some of his with the condition and how it’s affected him.  This is also a message that Bang Chan has emphasised many times, it’s even in the lyrics to Stray Kids’ song ‘Phobia’.

He reminds and encourages listeners to try to not let those thoughts stop you from being you, to not let it affect your confidence around others because, ultimately, your voice is precious and what you have to say matters.

Said in Episode 3, which aired on 20th January 2019

3. Don’t hurt yourself

“Don’t hurt yourself… Just because you have a lot of stress doesn’t mean you have to relieve it by hurting yourself or by going ways that might disadvantage you… If you think about the future it’s best to keep away from those thoughts and find different ways of relieving stress.  If you find yourself really, really lost, as I’ve always said: come here, look for me, ask me, talk with me and I’ll try my best to relieve your stress if I can”

After a fan asked for advice in dealing with self-harm, Chan thoughtfully discussed that this was not a healthy way of coping with stress or through difficult times, and that there are healthier ways to combat these emotions.

Instead, Chan hopes those facing these challenges can find comfort in his words.

Said in Episode 45, which aired on 17th November 2019.

4. I’m there to understand. I’ll be there right next to you.

“Whether you’re feeling insecure, a little depressed, or going through some stuff, just know that I’m there to understand.  I’ll be there right next to you”.

It’s important to remind one another that we’re not alone when going through difficult times and hardships; that we’re there to support each other in any way we can – and Bang Chan recognises this.

Reaffirmed multiple times, Bang Chan reminds Stays that Stray Kids’ music and content, as well as Chan’s Room, is a safe, supportive space where we can all find strength and comfort from one another.

Remember, Bang Chan is right there with you, cheering you on from the sidelines.

And Chan, Stays are here right next to you too.

Said in Episode 81, which aired on 22nd November 2020.

5. Hugs make everything better

It’s safe to say that Chan’s virtual hugs have become a staple of Chan’s Room episodes. Although beginning in Season 1 (2019), Chan has ended each live since with a quick hug.

When asked about the meaning behind the virtual hugs, Chan explained: 

“I mean I feel like you guys deserve it and hugs are the best! Of course, you guys aren’t physically here… I can’t hug you guys.  At least virtually I can hug you to make you feel a little more warmer, just to make your day a little bit more better.”

With the popularity of Chan’s virtual hugs, it’s definitely clear that it makes everyone’s day better.
Bang Chan’s virtual hugs began in Episode 10, which aired on 3rd October 2019.