During a recent livestream on Weverse to commemorate ILLIT’s 50th day since their debut, member Wonhee was observed addressing hate comments directed towards her, garnering a great deal of empathy from fans.
Despite the incident, speculation among netizens has erupted, with many believing it to be a calculated move by HYBE Corporation to garner “sympathy points”in the face of continued scrutiny of the group.
Throughout the livestream, Wonhee could be seen visibly distressed as she read and reported hate comments aimed towards both her and the group.
Fans initially commended her bravery, but scrutiny followed shortly after.
Attentive viewers pointed out that Wonhee frequently cast glances off-screen, possibly at members of the production team.
Shortly after, she was given a phone, which made her the sole member to possess one, while the others utilized tablets.
I’m so sad 😞 #WONHEE Was reporting the bad comments in the Weverse Live, she’s only 16 years old, the girls don’t deserve to suffer hate 💔💔 They are so sweet with everyone and just wanna be happy and successful #아일릿 #ILLIT #원희 pic.twitter.com/vnk8OkA6Xv
— illitxlove 🎀⭐️ (@illitxlove) May 14, 2024
In past livestreams, Wonhee consistently used a tablet while standing at the edge of the group with her members. This particular detail, along with the unusual timing of the livestream, has raised suspicions.
What’s Belift doing? Just chilling in the corner? Why are the artists the ones reporting during their own live??
— Gabby (@gabbiehabibi) May 14, 2024
Typically, K-pop groups commemorate their milestones by hosting livestream events on important anniversaries like the 100th day, making the 50th-day celebration appear unusual.
illit 50th straight
— ᧔o᧓ (@pqrkminju) April 15, 2024
Based on the circumstances, it is widely believed that HYBE intentionally orchestrated this in order to sway public opinion and gather support for ILLIT, as the group has been at the center of a dispute regarding alleged resemblances to another HYBE artist, NewJeans.
The online community has been expressing their doubts openly, with multiple comments expressing skepticism about the authenticity of the situation.
BELOW ARE A FEW REMARKS FROM NETIZENS:
“Why are they handing her a phone out of nowhere? With everything that has been going on, they totally did it intentionally.”
“I feel really sorry for the member, to be forced to read hate comments just for the company’s media play scheme.”
“HYBE is really trash…”
“This is so obviously staged. The member was so young and could not act but had to do what was told.”
“Shouldn’t they protect the artists by not letting them come on live at a sensitive time like this? They want sympathy points so bad.”
Despite facing criticism, a dedicated group of fans remain steadfast in their support for ILLIT, emphasizing the necessity of addressing and confronting hate comments.
They didn’t deserve all of this: (I can’t figure out why those who dislike them keep tuning in to their content.. It’s pretty clear the only intention is to spread hate.Like if it’s not your cup of tea, simply just don’t drink the tea.
— Marseagate (@Marseagate) May 14, 2024
Nevertheless, the dispute brings attention to persistent worries regarding the burdens and potential abuse that K-pop idols, particularly inexperienced and recently debuted performers, may encounter.
I don’t even stan them but i feel so bad they just debuted after the survival show and they’re getting treated by kpop stans like this stay strong illit 😭🤍
— veomgyu 🧸🌸 (@vinterim_) May 14, 2024
Despite the ongoing debate, it is still uncertain how ILLIT’s reputation will be affected.
Both fans and critics are demanding increased transparency and improved protection for idols from their management companies, urging HYBE to prioritize the well-being of their artists above strategic media tactics.
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