UP10TION's Wooshin drew backlash after being accused of touching Jeon So Mi's private part in their Christmas video for "The Show."
According to Allkpop, fans were angered upon seeing Wooshin and Jeon So Mi's video which allegedly showed how the UP10TION member touched Jeon So Mi's chest area. The fans also speculated the IOI member was even shocked for what happened.
While many viewers believe it was an accident, others were also firm of their interpretation, stating that Wooshin should have pulled back immediately after the first contact.
"The Show" was quick to release a statement to address the sexual harassment accusations towards Wooshin. In a dispatch, it stated the two MCs kept a "reasonable distance" while filming the Christmas video.
YMC Entertainment stated Jeon So Mi denied the controversy, adding that the IOI member was even surprised of the accusations towards Wooshin. TOP MEDIA also addressed the issue on behalf of the two MCs and said Wooshin has promised to be careful with his gestures to avoid misunderstandings.
Despite the clarifications, the issues refused to die down as fans continue to accuse Wooshin for allegedly harassing Jeon So Mi in the video. Hence, the SBS program released an official statement on Dec. 26 to apologize and clarify the controversy, Soompi cited.
"The Show" started with an apology to Wooshin and Jeon So Mi who were the subjects of the recent controversy. It also emphasized that there was no contact between the two MCs contrary to the accusations.
"There was no physical contact. Wooshin's hand was just overlapping with Jeon So Mi as she lowered her head in attempts to stay within the screen. They were definitely separated physically, which we confirmed with Jeon So Mi's female manager and staff who were present at the time," the SBS program said.
"The Show" added Wooshin and Jeon So Mi's managers were present during the filming of the controversial video, stating that the recording finished smoothly without any problem.