I see a lot of "Ri supported his hyungs through their scandals and was the bravest. And they should show some support too" Well to that I would say, it's precisely because he was the youngest, he could show support for his hyungs. In their society, he won't be held responsible -

- for his hyungs' mistakes. AS he was the youngest, he could still mention and support and talk about them. BUT if he makes a mistake, his Hyungs socially will take some of the blame for him messing up. And until he's cleared up, they cannot come to his support publicly..

If you look at it like that, you will understand why YB made the statement he did in that article. That he considers himself responsible too. Responsible for the Maknae. Regardless of the truth about Ri's accusations. Until it's resolved, they will consider themselves responsible

So until then, Ri has to be kept hidden and in penance. He is his hyung's responsibility, and they have to keep their silence until he's vindicated. That is just how these dynamics work in Asian societies. This is the other side of the power dynamics between elder and younger.

I know it matters little because it hurts so much anyway.. but I just wanted to present this view and maybe it will help lessen the blow, and make you hopeful for the future..

I thoroughly believe that this is temporary, and has to be this way before we can get back our Maknae.