i think some put a stigma on people who like k-pop because they'll be "toxic" without actually getting to know us. yes, there are toxic fans. they can be totally obliged to stay away from them. but they should at least not generalise us as if we're ALL toxic. many people also think we are koreaboos, which is ridiculous. there is a difference between liking the pop music in korea than wanting to become korean. because of these reasons, i try to be secretive about liking k-pop simply because i want to avoid being misjudged.
i remember when anime was pretty taboo. it still is to some extent. but nowadays it is becoming more accepted to be an anime fan or a "weeb." i hope someday kpop could become less taboo.
edit: i don't assume y'all are saying "hi, i like kpop" right off the bat when meeting someone new. i am only saying how some people have a negative view of kpop fans due to the toxic fans making chill fans look as if they're toxic. does that necessarily mean kpop is taboo to you... no. if you don't care, then you do you. just wanted to make that clear.