On October 7th, just hours before the Asian Games men’s football final between Korea and Japan, ZEROBASEONE member Park Gunwook had a live broadcast. His remark during this broadcast has raised eyebrows and led to a backlash.
In particular, Park Gunwook said, “I said that I would watch the football match with the other members. I even mentioned yesterday that I might go live to watch it with everyone. But anyway, this is a match between Korea and Japan… Because I’m an idol, I should remain neutral (laughs). You all understand that feeling, right? I believe you do. If you think about it, it makes sense, doesn’t it? Ah (of course), I’m Korean. I am Korean, but fans who love me are from all over the world, right? I believe you will understand. Please be generous and understanding.“
This comment, seemingly advocating for neutrality in the context of a heated sporting rivalry, struck a nerve with many Korean netizens who were quick to voice their displeasure.
The Korea-Japan rivalry has always been a sensitive subject for the Korean people. As the match in question was a final involving the national teams of both countries, the expectation of unwavering support for the Korean team ran high among Korean fans.
Park Gunwook’s remark, seen by some as a deviation from this expected patriotism, resulted in critical comments from Korean netizens.
Korean netizens expressed their opinions on Gunwook’s remark:
- “So, when it comes to money, there is no patriotism.”
- “Isn’t this odd? ZEROBASEONE doesn’t even have any Japanese members, so why would he say that?”
- “It’s cheering for football, what’s neutrality got to do with it?ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ”
- “Why should Korean idols remain neutral? Do you live in a neutral country or something?”
- “What is he even saying? Does he not have a nationality? I hope he thinks before he speaks.”
- “Why suddenly bring up things like ‘neutrality’? Before being an idol, he’s Korean”
- “Does he have dual citizenship or something?”
- “What? I don’t think Japanese fans would say anything about Koreans supporting Koreaㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ What kind of neutrality are you talking about?”