Recently, the production team of Shin Dong-yup’s web variety show Zzanbro Shin Dong-yes uploaded a preview for an upcoming episode featuring TXT members at the end of episode #1. 142. In the clip, the MCs appeared to pressure Soobin to measure the length of his nipple. Soobin was seen expressing discomfort, saying: “This is humiliating.”
After the preview was released, both Korean and international fans strongly criticized the content. The production team has since canceled the preview, but so far no official apologies have been issued from the staff or MCs. Viewers who saw the clip criticized the editing and planning of the show.
Many argued that the scene should never have been filmed, much less included in a public preview. Fans also pointed out that Soobin clearly expressed embarrassment, making the situation even more uncomfortable to watch. A netizen commented: “I looked Zzanbro sometimes, but I’ve never seen sexual harassment like this. And they even changed it in the preview?”
Another wrote, “They really invited idols as guests and thought this kind of low-level behavior was funny? Now they’re calling it sexual harassment content?” Some fans also called for the next episode to be cancelled, saying: “He said he felt humiliated. Please delete the next episode.”
The controversy is now expanding beyond criticism of the show itself. TXT’s fandom, MOA, has started calling for more protection from the group’s agency, BigHit Music. In a statement released on April 28, fans said the preview of Zzanbro contained inappropriate comments and behavior for content featuring idols during album promotions.
The statement said fans are taking the issue seriously because the preview included scenes that they said bordered on sexual harassment. MOA also announced plans to stage a truck protest against BigHit Music, demanding respect and protection for artists.
While Zzanbro is a YouTube-based web variety show known for direct conversations over drinks, critics argue that this does not condone inappropriate physical or sexualized content. Furthermore, the channel is not limited to adult viewers, which means that minors can access the content. Given that TXT is a global idol group and Soobin himself appears visibly uncomfortable, many viewers believe the show has crossed a clear line by using the scene as promotional material.
Sources: Daum | sports trends
