Live Reporting Of Hostile Comments By ILLIT’s Wonhee Draws Diverse Reactions

Netizens were divided when ILLIT member Wonhee reported hostile comments live during a program. ILLIT’s 50th anniversary live stream on May 15 garnered attention from internet forums and YouTube. Wonhee kept stroking her phone during the broadcast as others talked. She sporadically nodded and responded, but her phone obsession caught spectators’ attention.

See also: ILLIT’s Wonhee deletes hostile comments during live stream Netizens speculated that Wonhee was removing live-streamed nasty comments, prompting various reactions. After Adore’s Min Hee-jin called the group a clone of NewJeans, the group was accused of plagiarism. The accusations of imitating NewJeans’ music, dancing, and concept have increased criticism and hostility. Fan sympathy for Wonhee’s conduct included, “What fault do the kids have?” “ILLIT is suffering because of the adults’ disputes,” “It’s wrong to criticize ILLIT,” “Thinking of the young members’ pain is heartbreaking,” & “Stop harassing ILLIT.” Some observers thought it was manufactured. They noticed Wonhee sitting at the end, exchanging glances with someone before receiving a phone, and seemingly deleting comments, which they thought were staged. Skeptics said, “Malicious comments are wrong, but this situation seems like a viral stunt,” “Is ILLIT trying to frame themselves as victims?” “Reporting comments openly seems performative,” “Why would staff suddenly give her a phone during a live broadcast?” & “Are they trying to garner sympathy?” With their breakthrough title single ‘Magnetic’ and follow-up ‘Lucky Girl Syndrome,’ ILLIT is gaining success domestically and internationally.