ZEROBASEONE's Sung Han-bin Faces Backlash Over Controversial Remarks on Variety Show

Sung Han-bin of the group ZEROBASEONE has sparked controversy with his remarks on a variety show, leading to a public apology. Despite issuing a second apology, public sentiment remains cold, potentially impacting the group's activities.

Sung appeared on the YouTube channel 'Kkondaehee' on the 6th with fellow member Seok Matthew. During the show, Seok mentioned, "Han-bin always has a clean image, but he makes a sound every time we go over a speed bump." Sung responded, "Doesn't your butt hurt when you go over a bump too hard? We have a meme for that," and proceeded to mimic the action with a suggestive sound, adding "yummy," which led to the controversy.

Fans were shocked, given Sung's previously diligent and exemplary image. The backlash extended beyond Sung to the entire group, as he described the sound as a "meme popular within the group." Concerns arose that this could negatively affect the image ZEROBASEONE has built.

The controversy has inevitably affected other members' variety show appearances. ZEROBASEONE, who recently released their first full album, has been actively participating in variety shows. Jang Hao appeared on Netflix's 'Jangdo Baribari' on the 6th, reuniting with Jang Do-yeon from their web show 'Salon Drip,' but the controversy overshadowed the appearance.

On the 8th, Sung Han-bin, Kim Ji-woong, and Park Gun-wook will appear on the YouTube KBS Entertainment channel's 'Ko So-young's Pub Restaurant.' They are the first guests on Ko So-young's variety show comeback and her first solo MC program. However, the issue has led to increased scrutiny.

ZEROBASEONE's first full album, released on the 1st, sold 1.51 million copies in its first week, marking their sixth consecutive million-seller achievement, placing them among the top fourth-generation boy groups. They were also announced as the new faces of Chilsung Cider Zero.

However, the internal discord has overshadowed these achievements. The group's collective success is being diluted by individual missteps.

The incident has significant implications for the group's image and activities. Despite the apologies, public sentiment remains unsympathetic. Sung Han-bin's future actions will be closely watched as he promised to "learn diligently and show a changed attitude through actions."

Reported by Kim Ji-won, TenAsia one@tenasia.co.kr