ZEROBASEONE Shines in Wonju with Unique 'Corn Ambassador' Event

ZEROBASEONE created a memorable day in Wonju during their 'Idol Festa Attack'.

On the third episode of Mnet's Idol Festa 'Idol Festa Attack', aired on the 26th, ZEROBASEONE transformed into 'One-Day Corn Ambassadors' in Wonju. The group's enthusiasm in selling corn throughout the city led to a successful performance, completing a true local collaboration festival.

The journey to Wonju began with a warm-up mission. Upon realizing the unexpectedly large venue size, members (Sung Hanbin, Kim Jiwoong, Zhang Hao, Seok Matthew, Kim Taerae, Ricky, Kim Gyuvin, Park Gunwook, Han Yujin) split into three teams to sell '990 Won Corn', which served as concert tickets, through street promotions and guerrilla sales. Despite initial awkwardness, they gradually engaged with locals, showcasing a friendly and human side different from their stage personas. Notably, 'Wonju's son' Kim Jiwoong shared his unique feelings about visiting his hometown and had a dramatic reunion with his grandfather.

As the pop-up event kicked off, members divided into truck and stall teams, quickly taking charge of the scene. The event drew a massive crowd, including global fans from various countries, highlighting the group's international appeal. Sung Hanbin led global communication with multilingual interactions, following in the footsteps of Kang Daniel, who has been leading the 'Street Fighter' series since 2021, and recently debuted as the MC for 'World of Street Woman Fighter' (WSWF) to positive reviews.

Special interactions with fans continued, including a heartfelt confession from a fan inspired by Zhang Hao to pursue Chinese studies, and a surprise visit from national sports climbing athlete Cha Yujin, further heating up the atmosphere.

The direct sales efforts exceeded expectations. Members visited Wonju's local basketball team and public institutions to promote corn sales and the concert. Ricky impressed with his basketball skills, proving his 'all-rounder idol' status, while Sung Hanbin, tasked with hosting an internal broadcast at a public institution, captivated employees despite his nerves, boosting sales enthusiasm. The second pop-up faced challenges due to heavy rain, but fans remained undeterred.

The highlight of the festival, ZEROBASEONE's performance, was unveiled. Despite the rainy weather and weekday evening, the concert was a success. The opening stage 'SLAM DUNK' received explosive cheers, followed by diverse performances like 'BLUE' and 'GOOD SO BAD', reaching a climax. Unique elements like 'Corn Tickets', 'Corn Light Sticks', and 'Corn Time' with members posing with corn added to the excitement, turning the venue into a frenzy.

Reflecting on their first experience selling corn and promoting their concert, the members expressed pride, saying, "All nine of us worked really hard together today." Kim Jiwoong, visibly emotional, shared, "I've dreamed of performing with the members in my hometown, Wonju," with his parents and brother present, drawing attention.

The response from Wonju citizens and ZEROSE (the fandom) was overwhelming. Fans shared, "Living in the provinces, it's hard to see concerts, so I'm really grateful," "It's great to see ZEROBASEONE just by buying corn," "It feels like catching two birds with one stone with the idol and corn collaboration," and "I came with my daughter and now I'm a fan," as diverse reviews poured in, concluding the local collaboration festival with great success.

Lee Sojung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr