ENTERTAINMENT
YouTuber Wonji Faces Subscriber Drop Amid Office Environment Controversy
As of 10 PM on the 2nd, Wonji's YouTube channel, 'Wonji's Day,' had 999,000 subscribers. The channel, which previously maintained around 1.02 million subscribers, lost approximately 30,000 followers after the release of the so-called '6-pyeong office' video on the 20th of last month. The symbolic '1 million subscribers' milestone was broken just 12 days after the controversy erupted.
The controversy began when Wonji uploaded a video introducing her new office. The video showed a basement level 2, windowless space of about 6 pyeong (approximately 213 square feet) where 3 to 4 employees were working. The lack of a visible ventilation system in the cramped space led subscribers to criticize the poor working conditions, and the backlash quickly spread.
Wonji made the video private shortly after its release, apologizing by stating, "As it was my first office, there were some shortcomings." She further explained, "The building's overall ventilation system structure may not have been adequately conveyed through the video," and added that she made the video private to prevent misunderstandings. She also mentioned, "I judged that the lack of windows would not be a significant issue when signing the lease," providing context for her decision.
However, viewer reactions did not subside. Criticism continued as it was pointed out that Wonji had a separate personal space with a good view in Hannam-dong, which contradicted her previous emphasis on the importance of ventilation. In a subsequent apology, she admitted, "I should have prioritized working conditions and welfare," and acknowledged, "As an employer, my judgment was complacent." She also expressed embarrassment at the thought that she might have demanded sacrifices from her employees if they hadn't pointed out the issues, and promised to move to a larger office space.
Despite the apologies, the subscriber exodus did not stop. As the departure of fans became more apparent, the '1 million subscribers' title was ultimately lost.
Meanwhile, Wonji has grown as a travel creator based on her YouTube channel and expanded her public recognition through the ENA variety show 'Earth Marble World Travel' series. Earlier this year, she also made headlines with her marriage announcement.
