Jang Wonyoung’s “Blank Stare” Sparks Criticism as IVE’s Spotlight Shifts to Other Members

A viral TikTok video featuring IVE during their recent trip to Taiwan has sparked an unexpected debate, not about their fashion or performance but about Jang Wonyoung’s facial expression.

Lesseo and Ahn Yujin Stood Out In Recent Videos

The group, known for its eye-catching visuals and synchronized presence, looked stunning in simple outfits. Members Lesseo and Ahn Yujin particularly stood out with radiant smiles and long legs, earning a flood of praise from fans and casual viewers alike.

But while the video charmed many, a contrasting reaction followed after viewers noticed that Jang Wonyoung, often dubbed the “K-pop Princess,” maintained a stoic expression throughout. While her aristocratic visuals were still very much intact, her lack of smiles and distant aura drew scrutiny, especially when compared to her cheerful bandmates.

Netizens’ Reactions

In the comment sections, netizens speculated that Wonyoung appeared “annoyed” or “cold,” with some suggesting she may have been bothered by Yujin taking the spotlight. The theory snowballed due to their shared history from both debuting under IZ*ONE to now being IVE’s most high-profile members with prominent solo activities backed by Starship Entertainment.

This narrative isn’t new. Since their IZ*ONE days, fans and the public have frequently placed Wonyoung and Yujin in an invisible rivalry, fueling comparisons and even fan wars. Every smile, glance, or lack thereof is scrutinized under a microscope, creating a fragile narrative of backstage tension.

Wonyoung Fans Defended The Idol

But fans of Wonyoung quickly stepped in to clarify: this isn’t a case of jealousy or bad attitude; it’s just overanalysis. They pointed out thatWonyoung has a naturally neutral resting expression and that her busy schedule, packed with constant appearances and minimal rest, could easily explain her subdued demeanor.

Additionally, fans reminded others that Wonyoung and Yujin have a strong bond, often supporting each other on- and off-camera. Any tension fans believe they see is likely exaggerated or manufactured by anti-fans or obsessive stans of individual members.

Wonyoung has been the target of harsh online commentary since debuting at age 14 with IZ*ONE, and the ongoing micro-analysis of her behavior only feeds into the growing concern about cyberbullying in K-pop, especially against young female idols.

While it’s true that the spotlight can sometimes shift in group dynamics, many argue that moments like this highlight the toxic side of stan culture, where idol expressions are treated as evidence of betrayal or resentment.