WAKEONE Faces Backlash Over Unequal Seollal Content
WAKEONE is trending again for all the wrong reasons. Fans of ZEROBASEONE and izna are furious after the company posted wildly different Seollal (Lunar New Year) videos for the two groups.
Netizens claim WAKEONE’s unfair treatment controversy proves the company favors some artists over others. Let’s break down why K-Pop stans are storming social media with complaints.
See Also: ZEROBASEONE Sparks Joy With Unique Social Media Language at GDA
What Happened With ZEROBASEONE and izna’s Seollal Videos?
For Seollal, ZEROBASEONE and izna released festive content—but the effort put into each video split fans. ZEROBASEONE’s video showed members predicting their fortunes using saju (Korean astrology) in their practice room. Meanwhile, izna filmed a heartwarming concept where they “visited their grandma” at a decorated outdoor location with props and themed outfits.
Fans quickly noticed the imbalance. Both groups debuted through survival shows under WAKEONE, but only izna got a creative set. Comments like, “Why is ZB1 stuck in that same old practice room?” flooded Twitter. Many argued that WAKEONE’s unfair treatment controversy isn’t new—Kep1er fans raised similar issues last year.
“It’s Always the Practice Room!”: Fan Reactions Go Viral
The backlash exploded when fans compared the two videos side-by-side. While izna’s storyline included costumes and a custom set, ZEROBASEONE’s setup looked rushed. One fan tweeted, “Can we please move beyond the practice room?” Another wrote, “WAKEONE makes millions from ZB1 but won’t rent a decent filming space.”
International fans joined the debate too. A Reddit user said, “The hanbok debate is whatever, but the location difference is just disrespectful.” Even non-fans agreed: “If you’re using survival show hype, TREAT THEM EQUALLY.”
WAKEONE’s History of Unequal Group Treatment
This isn’t WAKEONE’s first feud over fairness. TO1 and Kep1er fans previously accused the company of ignoring older groups once new ones debut. Now, ZEROBASEONE and izna stans worry the pattern is repeating.
Netizens are demanding answers. “Why can’t WAKEONE invest in both groups equally?” asked a YouTube comment. Others pointed out that ZEROBASEONE’s temporary contract might explain the lack of effort—but fans countered, “Temporary doesn’t mean trashy content.”
See Also: HYBE Calls ZEROBASEONE Ugly Sparks Major Industry Clash
Final Thoughts: Will WAKEONE Fix This Mess?
The WAKEONE unfair treatment controversy shows no sign of slowing down. With fans threatening boycotts and hashtags like #WAKEONEApologize trending, the company needs to act fast. Do you think ZEROBASEONE and izna deserve equal treatment? Drop your thoughts below!
