NCT, known for its ever-expanding roster, took a significant step with the debut of its latest subunit, NCT WISH, in January 2024.
While the group's concept was built on continuous expansion, the announcement of NCT WISH marked the end of the never-ending growth strategy, introducing the last subunit comprised of new members.
A Lukewarm Welcome?
The arrival of NCT WISH was celebrated on social media platforms, with existing members expressing support. However, a recent live stream by NCT's Haechan has stirred the pot, bringing forth mixed reactions to the group's impending debut.
During the live stream, Haechan, who had appeared as a special guest on the final episode of the survival show forming NCT WISH, shared his personal take on the new unit.
#HAECHAN mention #NCTWISH on today weverse live!! pic.twitter.com/VwAmwvWsyB
— rey ★ 𝓢𝓽𝓮𝓪𝓭𝔂🔜 (@marikucore) January 25, 2024
Acknowledging his eight years as an idol, Haechan admitted to finding it challenging to view the fresh faces as immediate teammates. Despite this, he expressed genuine affection for the newcomers and wished them the best.
"This is a personal opinion, really. But I've been doing this for 8 years now... They're just debuting when I'm celebrating my 8th anniversary. So it's not the easiest to see them as teammates yet... Like, I don't feel all that close to them right now. But they're the maknae members of NCT, a group that we worked really hard to build. So, I do feel affectionate toward them. I really want the best for them." - Haechan
Mixed Reactions and Controversy
While some fans appreciated Haechan's honesty, others felt his comments were poorly timed, especially considering NCT WISH's imminent debut.
Many NCTzens had already expressed reservations about the unit, with concerns ranging from their ages to the perceived disconnection caused by the survival show's subscription-based format.
Haechan further remarked on the autonomy of fans to decide whether they see NCT WISH as part of the larger team, drawing parallels to the initial separation of teams when NCT first started.
While some fans resonated with his perspective, others argued that his words might exacerbate existing clashes between different fan groups within the NCT fandom.
In the midst of anticipation and skepticism surrounding NCT WISH, Haechan's candid commentary has added an unexpected layer of complexity. As the unit gears up for its debut, the NCT fandom remains divided on whether to fully embrace the new members.
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Written by Cassidy Jones.
