On April 4, 2025, the popular K-pop group ZEROBASEONE, also known as ZB1, made an appearance on SBS Inkigayo’s YouTube channel as part of their promotional activities for their latest releases. However, their engagement in one of the games during the show stirred significant conversations on social media, particularly regarding claims of queerbaiting.
Understanding Queerbaiting in Pop Culture
Queerbaiting refers to the practice where an artist or individual appears to support the LGBTQ+ community or adopts queer aesthetics primarily to attract members of that community, while not genuinely identifying as queer themselves. This controversial tactic has sparked debates across various entertainment sectors.
The Game That Sparked Controversy
In the episode, the group participated in various playful games, including the Pepero game—a competitive eating challenge involving two players attempting to eat a Pepero stick from opposite ends without letting go. The aim is to shorten the stick as much as possible without physical contact, making it a playful yet intimate interaction.
As fans reacted on social platforms, the responses were notably divided. A clip showcasing the Pepero game was shared by the Twitter account @kpopachillean, prompting a slew of reactions.
“This is normal in ZEROSEVILLE”
Mixed Reactions from Fans
Critics of the group argued that the interactions during the game appeared forced and awkward, with some asserting that the group’s dynamics suggested a superficial approach to queer representation. One user remarked:
“You can tell they’re all straight because of the amount of queerbaiting they do. No gay man is comfortable doing that, especially in a conservative country like Korea.”
Similarly, other users expressed concern about the frequency of such accusations against the group, often overshadowing any discussions about their music:
“All I ever hear about ZB1 is queerbaiting but never about their music.”
“Do ZB1 stans ever talk about music? The streams are dwindling with every comeback. At this point, I’m convinced even the group is aware all they’re good for is queerbaiting.”
On the flip side, a considerable number of fans defended the group, suggesting that the accusations of queerbaiting were perhaps exaggerated. Some pointed out that the Pepero game is a traditional K-pop activity often associated with friendly fan service:
“Sure, this is fanservicey, but ZB1 is the LAST group you’d want to call out for queerbaiting. Jiwoong participated in an MV about homophobia, Hanbin specializes in queer-coded dance styles, Hao sang an OST from a BL, and Matthew supports lesbian ZEROSE in a fan call.”
“Real people cannot queerbait. This game is a classic in the K-pop industry, lmao.”
“Why is everyone hating? Isn’t this a normal K-pop group activity?”
ZB1’s Upcoming Activities in 2025
As of 2025, ZEROBASEONE has a busy schedule that includes the release of their fifth mini-album, BLUE PARADISE, which features the title track “Blue.”Additionally, they re-released the single “Doctor! Doctor!”in January 2025.
Looking ahead, ZB1 will host their second fan convention, named BLUE MANSION, from April 18 to April 20, 2025, at the KSPO Dome in Seoul, South Korea. Notably, the event on April 20 will be available for online streaming.
Moreover, ZEROBASEONE is set to launch the Korean version of “Only One Story,”the opening theme for the Pokémon Korea TV animation Pokémon: Rayquaza Rising, on April 15, 2025. This follows the earlier release of its Japanese version in October 2024.
Known for their eclectic music style and diverse international lineup, ZEROBASEONE is currently managed by WAKEONE, with their contract extended until January 2026.