Seoul, South Korea - Recently, during a livestream on Weverse to celebrate ILLIT's 50th day since debut, member Wonhee was seen reporting hate comments herself, drawing significant sympathy from fans.

However, this incident has ignited a wave of speculation among netizens, who believe it to be a strategic move by HYBE Corporation to gain "sympathy points" amid ongoing criticism of the group.

During the livestream, Wonhee appeared visibly distressed as she read and reported hate comments directed at her and the group.

Fans initially praised her bravery, but scrutiny quickly followed.

Observant viewers noted that Wonhee frequently glanced off-screen, seemingly at staff members.

Shortly after, she was handed a phone, making her the only member to have one, while the others used tablets.

I’m so sad 😞 #WONHEE Was reporting the bad comments in the Weverse Live, she’s only 16 years old, the girls don’t deserve to suffer hate 💔💔 They are so sweet with everyone and just wanna be happy and successful #아일릿 #ILLIT #원희

pic.twitter.com/vnk8OkA6Xv

— illitxlove 🎀⭐️ (@illitxlove) May 14, 2024

In previous livestreams, Wonhee had always used a tablet alongside her group members, even when positioned at the edge of the group. This detail, combined with the unusual timing of the livestream, has fueled suspicions.

What’s Belift doing? Just chilling in the corner? Why are the artists the ones reporting during their own live??

— Gabby (@gabbiehabibi) May 14, 2024

Traditionally, K-pop groups celebrate their milestones with livestreams on significant anniversaries such as the 100th day, making the 50th-day celebration seem out of the ordinary.

illit 50th rak

— ᧔o᧓ (@pqrkminju) April 15, 2024

Given the context, many believe this was a deliberate attempt by HYBE to manipulate public perception and garner sympathy for ILLIT, which has been embroiled in controversy over alleged similarities to another HYBE group, NewJeans.

READ MORE: K-Netz Express Dissatisfaction About ILLIT Wonhee Being Visuals of Group: 'She's Not Ugly But'

The online community has been vocal about their doubts, with various comments expressing skepticism about the authenticity of the situation

HERE ARE SOME OF THE NETIZENS' COMMENTS:

"Why are they handing her a phone out of nowhere? With everything that has been going on, they totally did it intentionally."

"I feel really sorry for the member, to be forced to read hate comments just for the company's media play scheme."

"HYBE is really trash..."

"This is so obviously staged. The member was so young and could not act but had to do what was told."

"Shouldn't they protect the artists by not letting them come on live at a sensitive time like this? They want sympathy points so bad."

Despite the backlash, some fans continue to support ILLIT and emphasize the importance of addressing hate comments.

They didn't deserve all of this :(

I can't figure out why those who dislike them keep tuning in to their content.. It's pretty clear the only intention is to spread hate.

Like if it's not your cup of tea,
simply just don't drink the tea.

— Marseagate (@Marseagate) May 14, 2024

However, the controversy highlights ongoing concerns about the pressures and potential exploitation faced by K-pop idols, particularly young and newly debuted artists.

I don't even stan them but i feel so bad they just debuted after the survival show and they're getting treated by kpop stans like this stay strong illit 😭🤍

— veomgyu 🧸🌸 (@vinterim_) May 14, 2024

As the debate rages on, the impact on ILLIT's reputation remains to be seen.

Fans and critics alike are calling for greater transparency and better protection for idols from their managing companies, urging HYBE to prioritize the well-being of their artists over strategic media plays.

ALSO READ: ILLIT Wonhee's Charm Dethrones Son Ye-jin? The Internet is Buzzing 

KpopStarz owns this article

Written by Cassidy Jones