Recently, the production team of Shin Dong-yup’s web variety show Zzanbro Shin Dong-yup uploaded a preview for an upcoming episode with the TXT members at the end of episode No. 142. In the clip, the MCs appeared to pressure Soobin into having the length of his nipple measured. Soobin was seen expressing discomfort, saying, “This is humiliating.”
After the preview was released, both Korean and international fans strongly criticized the content. The production team has since deleted the preview, but no official apology from the staff or MCs has been issued so far. Viewers who saw the clip criticized the show’s editing and planning.
Many argued that the scene should never have been filmed, let alone included in a public preview. Fans also pointed out that Soobin clearly expressed embarrassment, making the situation even more uncomfortable to watch. One netizen commented, “I’ve watched Zzanbro sometimes, but I’ve never seen sexual harassment like this. And they even edited it into the preview?”
Another wrote, “Did they really invite idols as guests and think this kind of low-level behavior was funny? Are they calling sexual harassment content now?” Some fans also demanded that the upcoming episode be canceled, saying, “He said he felt humiliated. Please scrap the next episode.”
The controversy is now expanding beyond criticism of the show itself. TXT’s fandom, MOA, has begun calling for stronger protection from the group’s agency, BigHit Music. In a statement released on April 28, fans said the preview for Zzanbro contained remarks and behavior that were inappropriate for content featuring idols during album promotions.
The statement said fans are taking the issue seriously because the preview included scenes that they believe came close to sexual harassment. MOA also announced plans for a truck protest targeting BigHit Music, demanding respect and protection for the artists.
Although Zzanbro is a YouTube-based web variety show known for direct conversations over drinks, critics argue that this does not excuse inappropriate physical or sexualized content. The channel is also not restricted to adult viewers, meaning minors can access the content. With TXT being a global idol group and Soobin himself appearing visibly uncomfortable, many viewers believe the show crossed a clear line by using the scene as promotional material.
Sources: Daum | 스포츠경향
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