A single comment from Jang Wonyoung of IVE during their concert in Taiwan led to a nationwide shortage of Watermelon Oolong Tea. The drink, sold by popular Taiwanese chain Chun Shui Tang, sold out within hours after Wonyoung mentioned wanting to try it.
Stores across Taiwan quickly posted signs saying, “Watermelon Oolong is temporarily sold out 💕 Sorry…💕” Fans and locals were stunned by the sudden demand. Some clerks even asked customers, “Is it because of Jang Wonyoung?” before apologizing for the shortage.
The reaction went viral in Korea after a post titled “Taiwan Goes into Sold-Out Frenzy Because of Jang Wonyoung’s Comment” gained over 80,000 views on Theqoo. Korean netizens expressed shock at her influence, with many now curious about the drink’s taste.
Taiwanese media dubbed the trend the “Jang Wonyoung Watermelon Oolong Tea craze.” The drink, described as “refreshing and delicious, like watermelon juice,” became a must-try overnight. While Korean fans call her “Princess Wonyoung,” Taiwanese fans have upgraded her title to “Goddess Wonyoung.”
Korean netizens shared their reactions online:
“Whoa, now I’m curious, LOL. I always drink Oolong Milk Tea… but Watermelon Oolong?!” “She really feels like the top star these days.” “What the heck, now I want to try it too.” “Wonyoung said she wanted to drink it, and it’s already sold out — what are we supposed to do, LOL.” “I’m so curious about the taste.”
This isn’t the first time Wonyoung’s words have sparked trends. Her fashion choices, hairstyles, and even food preferences often go viral. The Watermelon Oolong Tea incident proves her influence extends beyond Korea, affecting markets internationally.
Chun Shui Tang, founded in 1983, is famous for inventing bubble tea. Their Watermelon Oolong Tea combines fresh watermelon flavor with traditional oolong tea, creating a unique summer drink. The sudden demand has left stores scrambling to restock.
Fans in Taiwan shared their experiences online, with some posting photos of empty shelves. Others joked about the “Wonyoung effect” being stronger than any marketing campaign. The brand has not yet commented on whether they will increase production.
IVE, a six-member girl group under Starship Entertainment, debuted in 2021. They quickly rose to fame with hits like “Eleven” and “Love Dive.” Wonyoung, a former IZ*ONE member, is one of the most popular 4th-generation idols.
This incident highlights the power of K-pop idols in shaping consumer behavior. Similar trends have happened before, like when BTS’s V made a Tous les Jours cake sell out or BLACKPINK’s Jennie boosted sales of Chanel products.
Taiwanese fans are now hoping Wonyoung will return soon so they can try the drink together. Until then, many are waiting patiently for stores to restock. Some have even started sharing DIY recipes to recreate the beverage at home.
The Watermelon Oolong Tea shortage shows how quickly trends can spread in the digital age. One mention from a top idol can change a product’s fate overnight. For brands, this is a lesson in the power of celebrity endorsements—even unintentional ones.
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