The controversy began shortly after debut, when an online post accused Kim Geon Woo of using abusive language toward staff during a YouTube variety show recording. According to the claim, he was unaware that his microphone was still on, and the incident allegedly caused filming to be halted due to the tense atmosphere. Although no concrete evidence was initially provided, similar testimonies continued to surface, intensifying the situation.
Past Claims Resurface and Escalate
The issue escalated further when an older post from a parenting community resurfaced. The post described alleged mistreatment by a rookie idol toward a staff member working as a contract FD at KBS. While the idol was not explicitly named, clues such as the surname “Kim,” age “24 as of 2026,” and participation in an Mnet survival program led many to speculate that Kim Geon Woo was the individual in question.
A decisive turning point came when another staff member came forward, claiming to have suffered severe psychological distress due to workplace mistreatment. The individual reportedly attempted self-harm and shared medical documentation, pushing the controversy beyond mere speculation and into a more serious public debate.
Agency Response Draws Criticism
Despite growing public concern, the agency’s response was widely criticized as insufficient. Rather than directly addressing the bullying allegations, the company issued a vague statement focused on denying appearance-related criticism. The lack of a clear stance fueled further suspicion and led to backlash from fans.
The controversy soon caused a major split within the fandom. Some fans demanded clarification, while others called for Kim Geon Woo’s removal from the group to prevent further harm to the remaining members. Protests escalated, with wreaths and banners reportedly sent to locations associated with CJ Group and CJ ENM.
Amid the ongoing backlash, Kim Geon Woo faced additional criticism after a fan signing event in Guangzhou. A controversy arose when a Polaroid event winner was allegedly replaced with another attendee suspected of having personal connections with the idol. A fan who claimed to be affected released video footage and stated that they felt publicly humiliated, further intensifying public outrage.
Activities Suspended, Apology Issued
As negative sentiment continued to grow, the agency officially announced on April 8 that Kim Geon Woo would suspend his activities. The company stated that he would take time for self-reflection and that ALPHA DRIVE ONE would continue promotions as a seven-member group. The agency also acknowledged that he had used inappropriate language during filming, admitting that he was unaware his microphone was on at the time.
Kim Geon Woo later issued a handwritten apology, expressing remorse and acknowledging the harm caused by his actions. However, public opinion remains largely critical, with some questioning whether he should have debuted in the first place.
The situation has also placed a heavy burden on the remaining members of ALPHA DRIVE ONE. With a comeback scheduled for May, the group now faces both logistical challenges and reputational damage, as they attempt to move forward under the shadow of controversy.
Sources: Daum | MK스포츠
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