Controversy Emerged Over ILLIT’s Wonhee Using Crutches for Japan Departure
On the morning of June 28, ILLIT departed from Gimpo International Airport for overseas schedules. Many fans and reporters were present to see ILLIT off.
Members Yoona and Iroha appeared first, holding hands and smiling brightly. Following them, Moka, Minju, and finally Wonhee, who was on crutches due to an ankle injury, came out. Wonhee struggled to walk to the photo zone but still greeted the fans with a bright smile.
Fans have criticized this process because none of the members seemed to be properly taking care of Wonhee. Despite having an injured member, the others walked ahead without seeming to notice. Only Minju briefly stopped to stay by Wonhee’s side.
The agency has also faced criticism for their apparent lack of support. Two specific points were noted: first, the fact that no one helped Wonhee with her outerwear. Using crutches in the heat is particularly challenging, and anyone with experience using crutches would understand this. The lack of such simple care and support has led to many expressing their disappointment.
Furthermore, there is backlash regarding what seemed to be improper use of the crutches. When using one crutch, it is typically placed on the side of the healthy leg, opposite the injured leg. However, Wonhee used the crutch on her injured right leg even after the photo session and while passing through the departure gate. This raises questions about whether she received proper instruction on how to use the crutches.
Online communities and various posts are reacting with comments such as, “Why is there no one helping the injured Wonhee?”, “Knowing full well there are many cameras, they didn’t even show consideration. Is it a lack of education and communication from the agency?”, and “It’s heartbreaking to see Wonhee like this.”
Additionally, comments shedding doubts on Wonhee’s crutch use, such as, “It would hurt to use the injured leg like that” and “Wow, didn’t the hospital tell her how to use the crutches properly”, also emerged.
Meanwhile, ILLIT is scheduled to attend the MBC music program ‘Show! Music Core in JAPAN’ on June 29 and 30.
