WOODZ, also known as Cho Seung Youn, has become embroiled in controversy following claims that unpaid staff members were being recruited for his overseas concert tour.
Recently, a recruitment post uploaded by someone claiming to be an acquaintance of a staff member involved in the concert began circulating across online communities.
The post was reportedly seeking staff members for the Germany stop of WOODZ’s ongoing world tour Archive.1, which has been running since March. According to the notice, volunteers would be assigned tasks such as crowd control, booth assistance, staff support, and meal-related duties during the concert day.
The controversy intensified after the conditions listed included “unpaid,” “meals provided,” and “concert viewing available.” Additional qualifications included the ability to speak Korean and German, prior K-pop concert experience, and knowledge related to merchandise and performances.
The author of the post explained, “I’m posting this on behalf of a friend who is in charge of WOODZ’s concert in Germany.” As criticism over unpaid labor grew, the poster later added in the comments, “It seems they are recruiting unpaid volunteers in exchange for being able to watch the concert,” while also saying, “For fans of the artist, this could be a good opportunity, so I hope only interested people apply.”
The post quickly spread across online communities and social media platforms, triggering strong backlash from netizens. Some have raised concerns that the issue may stem from the event management company responsible for operating the concert rather than directly from the artist himself.
Regarding the controversy, on May 8, WOODZ’s agency EDAM Entertainment told Korean media outlet Sports Today that they had confirmed the details with the local concert organizer regarding the unpaid recruitment issue.
The agency stated, “We sincerely apologize for not thoroughly reviewing the matter in advance.”
They continued, “Regarding the shortcomings in local concert operations, we will closely cooperate with the local organizers to ensure that the necessary measures are taken. Moving forward, we will strengthen communication with local partners and inspect the entire concert operation process more carefully and thoroughly.”
Sources: Nate, Daum
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