3 years ago, IZ*ONE was officially born, 2 “victims” were suddenly robbed of their chance to debut
The last episode of ‘Produce 48’ aired 3 years ago has brought many consequences later, despite the great success of IZ*ONE.
Following the success of the previous two versions, Mnet continues to carry out the third season of the Produce series called ‘Produce 48‘. The special thing of this season is the participation of Japanese contestants to compete for a debut spot with Korean trainees.
Right from the time the program aired, some names were believed by fans to be sure to be in the debut lineup when continuously holding high rankings for many weeks like former After School member Lee Gaeun, Miyawaki Sakura, Ahn Yujin, Miyazaki Miho, Jang Wonyoung…
On August 31, 2018, that is, 3 years ago, the ranking final of ‘Produce 48’ officially found the debut lineup for the group IZ*ONE, including Jang Wonyoung, Miyawaki Sakura, Jo Yuri, Choi Yena, Ahn Yujin, Yabuki Nako, Kwon Eunbi, Kang Hyewon, Honda Hitomi, Kim Chaewon, Kim Minju, Lee Chaeyeon.
Surprisingly, the most anticipated name Lee Gaeun only stopped at 14th place, making the audience extremely confused. Sometime later, the vote-rigging scandal of the Produce series broke out loudly and surprised many people. 12 contestants would have officially debuted if it had not been for the PD’s manipulation.
Among them, in Produce 48, Lee Gaeun, Han Chowon made viewers regret the most because they were both extremely talented and popular trainees. According to the source, Lee Gaeun and Han Chowon were supposed to rank 5th and 6th respectively in the Produce 48 final. The two girls could have been included in the debut lineup of IZ*ONE. When fans look back at the moments during the final ranking announcement, they couldn’t help but feel upset seeing Gaeun and Chowon’s disappointing expressions as they were expecting their names to be called.
Seeing the success that IZ*ONE has achieved, netizens are even more frustrated for Gaeun & Chowon because the two girls were robbed of getting what they deserve. Leaving Produce 48, Gaeun also terminated her contract with the agency. Currently there is very little information about her. Chowon is a bit more fortunate to debut in the new girl group LIGHTSUM.
Although IZ*ONE has officially disbanded, Gaeun & Chowon have also been compensated, the 2 “victims”, the public and fans will probably never forget about the vote manipulation that took place.
