IVE member Jang Wonyoung has kicked off 2026 by setting social media ablaze. The idol shared a series of photos on her personal account to mark the New Year, and one particular image has captured the full attention of her global fanbase. The now-viral photo shows Wonyoung receiving an affectionate kiss on the cheek from a young child, a moment fans found both incredibly endearing and enviable. The post, shared on January 1 according to Korean Standard Time, quickly became a major talking point across online communities.
The Viral Photo That Captured Everyone’s Attention
Jang Wonyoung posted a collection of photos without a caption, a typical style for her casual updates. The set featured various moods and locations, but one image stood out. In it, a child model is seen kissing Wonyoung on the cheek while she smiles for the camera. The innocent and sweet moment instantly struck a chord with fans, known as DIVEs.
The reaction was swift and filled with playful jealousy. Social media comments and forum posts were flooded with reactions from fans wishing they were in the child’s place. Comments like “Why can’t it be me?”, “So cute,” and “I’m jealous” were widely shared. One fan expressed the collective sentiment, writing, “Wonyoung, kiss me too, please!”.
Adding to the buzz was a charming detail fans quickly noticed: Wonyoung’s famously petite face appeared to be almost the same size as the child’s. This visual comparison became a major point of discussion, with many netizens expressing shock and amusement at the similarity. The child’s mother also joined the conversation, leaving a comment on the post to thank Wonyoung for the lovely memory.
“Wonyoung has the whole fandom feeling a little jealous!” one popular fan page posted, summarizing the online reaction to the adorable photo.
A Look Back: IVE’s Tradition of New Year Greetings
While Wonyoung’s personal post is making headlines now, she and her IVE groupmates have a history of sharing special New Year greetings with fans. In previous years, the full group has officially celebrated the Lunar New Year by releasing coordinated photos in traditional Korean hanbok.
For the 2023 Lunar New Year, all six IVE members—An Yujin, Gaeul, Rei, Jang Wonyoung, Liz, and Leeseo—posed in colorful, modern-styled hanbok. Their agency, Starship Entertainment, released a statement with the photos, saying, “The year 2022, which has been like a dream to us since our debut, has passed and 2023 has newly dawned. We hope everyone stays happy and healthy every day in 2023, and we wish you a happy holiday with your loved ones.”.
These group photos always showcase each member’s individual style, with concepts often described as “six people, six colors” of beauty. The tradition highlights the group’s connection to their culture and their desire to share festive well-wishes directly with their supporters.
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Wonyoung’s Lasting Impact as a Trending Icon
This recent viral moment is another example of Jang Wonyoung’s powerful presence as a trendsetter. Since her debut, everything from her fashion choices and hairstyles to her mannerisms often becomes a major talking point and inspires trends among young people.
Her ability to generate such enthusiastic and widespread discussion with a simple, captionless photo demonstrates her unique status. She is consistently recognized as a visual icon and a central figure in the “4th generation” of K-pop. Moments like the New Year photo reaffirm her close and influential bond with fans, who eagerly watch her every move.
The online frenzy also underscores the very personal way idols now interact with their audience. Through direct social media updates, fans get glimpses of their favorite stars’ off-stage moments, fostering a sense of intimacy and connection that fuels these instant viral reactions.
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