During the IVEs SHOW WHAT I AM concert held on October 31, 2025 (KST), Wonyoung performed her self-composed solo song “Eight”. While fans initially applauded her for showing artistic growth, online reaction quickly turned sour after the full lyrics began circulating on social media.
Netizens have shared screenshots of what are believed to be the song’s lyrics, featuring confident and playful lines such as:
“My color, Miuccia Prada / Have you seen my pose?”
“If you want to be better than me, come forward.”
“Count to five, six, seven, I 8 (ate).”
While the tone of the track fits Wonyoung’s stylish and sassy image, the writing style left many unconvinced. Some criticized the lyrics as “embarrassing” and “too self-indulgent”, while others defended her creative endeavor, saying it was typical of a young idol exploring personal expression.
Korean online forum theqoo was filled with mixed reactions after the text went viral:
- He’s only 22 years old: it’s logical that he writes this way. LOL.
- These texts appear to be written by AI.
- The phrase “Miuccia Prada” seems like it’s trying too hard to sound luxurious.
- Honestly, I find it cute. It fits his concept perfectly.
- Next time he needs a professional lyricist.
- It’s not that bad, it’s just typical K-pop bravado.
Others have even compared his creative style to HyunAof his early solo music, saying that the campy, exaggerated tone actually worked in his favor.
Beyond the lyrics, Jang Wonyoung also faced backlash regarding her stage outfit, which some netizens labeled as “too revealing.” Clips of her performance circulated widely, reigniting ongoing debates about sexualization and double standards in female idol style.
However, fans defended the idol, pointing out that his performance and confidence on stage reflect the very empowerment his song celebrates.
“She’s embracing her individuality. People still criticize her no matter what she wears,” one fan commented on social media.
Despite the online divide, Jang Wonyoung’s solo debut with “Eight” marks another milestone in his career. As the youngest member of IVE, she has often been praised for her professionalism and composure under pressure, although public reactions to her artistic choices remain polarizing.
Whether “Eight” becomes a defining step in his growth as an artist or simply a viral meme moment, one thing is for sure: Jang Wonyoung continues to dominate the K-pop conversation, for better or worse.
Sources: theqoo, Koreaboo
