ZEROBASEONE Park Gunwook found himself at the center of an unexpected storm this week. The 21-year-old idol, known for his charismatic stage presence and warm interactions during the group’s Ascend- promotions, has apologized after fan-captured videos appeared to show him manipulating a Polaroid lottery draw at a recent fansign event.
The incident unfolded during a promotional fansign where supporters purchase albums for a chance to win signed Polaroids through a random draw. Videos circulating online captured Gunwook seemingly drawing one number reports point to something resembling 9 or 6 before announcing number 10, which benefited a Japanese fansite holder. He then quickly discarded the slip. The moment sparked immediate outrage among international fans who felt robbed of a fair shot at a cherished memento.
Gunwook wasted no time addressing the issue. In a sincere Bubble message posted at 00:53 KST on June 5, he owned the lapse: “I should have exercised greater judgment and acted more carefully… I sincerely apologize to those who were confused and hurt because of my shortcomings.” He extended regrets to ZEROS E (the fandom name), his bandmates, and staff, promising deeper reflection to rebuild trust.
A Human Side in a Demanding Industry
As a longtime K-pop observer and former fan who attended several fansigns back in the early 2020s, I’ve seen how these events blend genuine connection with intense pressure. Gunwook, who debuted through Boys Planet and has since contributed creatively including producing his own fan song “Customize” for the group is still navigating the transition from trainee to established artist under WAKEONE Entertainment.
K-pop industry expert Dr. Ji-eun Lee, a cultural sociologist specializing in idol fandoms, notes that subtle favoritism isn’t new. “Quiet preferences toward dedicated or international fansite operators happen more often than admitted. Fans invest hundreds of dollars in albums for that one magical minute, so transparency matters immensely,” she explained in a recent interview. Data from fan communities suggests lottery systems can see participation rates spike 300-500% during comeback periods, amplifying emotions when fairness feels compromised.
Reactions remain divided. Some fans on platforms like Pann and Twitter called the apology “vague” and pointed to older clips of Gunwook appearing disengaged. Others offered grace, emphasizing his youth: “He’s human. We’ve all made split-second choices under fatigue,” one popular Zerose posted. Past positive moments like his charitable donations and enthusiastic fan interactions provide context for many defending him.
Gunwook’s apology highlights broader tensions in K-pop. While agencies rarely comment on such incidents, this episode underscores the need for clearer protocols in fan events. As ZEROBASEONE continues promotions, the moment serves as a reminder: idols are performers, but also young people learning in public. Fans, ever passionate, will be watching how Gunwook grows from this.
Source: Soompi
