The K-pop idol was falsely accused of using a curse word during a video call with a fan, but forensic reports have proven his innocence.
Kim Ji Woong, a member of the popular K-pop group ZEROBASEONE, was recently embroiled in a controversy after a fan claimed that he used a Korean curse word at the end of a video call. The fan uploaded a clip of the call on social media, sparking outrage and disappointment among some of the idol’s fans. However, the allegation has now been proven to be false, as forensic reports have confirmed that Kim Ji Woong did not use any offensive language during the call.
Forensic reports debunk the accusation
According to Dispatch, a media outlet that obtained a copy of the voice analysis result from the Korea Forensic Service, the clip that the fan uploaded was tampered with. The report stated that the voice of Kim Ji Woong was divided into three phrases and analyzed by experts, who concluded that the last phrase was not said by him. Instead, an outside voice with a different pitch was added to the clip to make it sound like he said a vulgar word.
dispatch defending and debunking the jiwoong issue coming in with evidence 😭❤️ pic.twitter.com/UyLfDhqKHP
— 🍒🍟🍅 (@jiwoongfans) February 17, 2024
The report also stated that the CCTV footage from the phone call was examined, and the shape of Ji Woong’s mouth did not match the word that he was accused of saying. Additionally, a staff member who was present during the call gave an official statement that the idol did not use any inappropriate language at the end of the call.
WAKEONE defends Kim Ji Woong
WAKEONE, the agency of ZEROBASEONE, also issued a statement denying the accusation and expressing their support for Kim Ji Woong. They said that the fan who uploaded the clip had malicious intentions and that they would take legal action against them. They also apologized to the fans who were hurt by the false rumor and thanked them for their trust and love for the idol.
every tongue that raised against jiwoong shall fall pic.twitter.com/k9uT7o7Ngx
— NORI ᥫ᭡ (@jiwoongiez) February 17, 2024
ZEROBASEONE to continue their activities
Despite the controversy, ZEROBASEONE is set to continue their activities as planned. The group is scheduled to perform at KCON HONG KONG 2024, a major K-pop festival, on March 31, 2024. They will also have a meet and greet session with their fans after the show. Moreover, the group is expected to make a comeback this year with more fan meetings and concerts.
ZEROBASEONE is one of the most popular K-pop groups in the industry, with a global fan base and numerous awards. The group consists of seven members: Kim Ji Woong, Lee Min Hyuk, Park Seung Hoon, Choi Hyun Woo, Kim Tae Hyun, Jung Jae Hyun, and Lee Joon Ho. They debuted in 2021 with the mini album ZERO:ONE, which topped the charts in Korea and abroad. They are known for their powerful performances, catchy songs, and charismatic personalities.