IVE is facing controversy after recent comeback teasers sparked debate over the group’s true center.
Fans noticed different members getting center focus in the concept photos. This has led to questions about whether Jang Wonyoung still holds the center position she was once linked to.
A viral post on Pann pointed out that the “Annyeongz” duo, Wonyoung and Yujin, were traditionally the group’s main visuals in the center. But lately, Rei is taking center stage alongside Yujin. This shift caused mixed reactions among fans.
The post highlights how Wonyoung has been swapped out for Rei in the center spot, stirring controversy. It also notes that Leeseo is the only member who hasn’t appeared in the center even once, unlike Gaeul and Liz who have each had turns.
The original poster shared:
“Originally, ‘Annyeongz’ were seen as the representative two centers. But lately, they’ve been swapping out Wonyoung for Rei instead, which has caused some debate among fans.”
“And in the latest concept photos, the only member who hasn’t been in the center position even once is Leeseo. Both Gaeul and Liz have at least gotten one turn in the center.”
“Personally, I think it’s fine if they rotate the center spot with each album’s concept photos. For the ‘Love Dive’ concept, Leeseo and Wonyoung were the main centers, while this time it’s Rei and Yujin. So I expect next time it’ll probably be Gaeul and Liz. But seeing how fans keep bringing it up, I kind of wish they would just let Annyeongz take the center spot instead…”
— Viral Pann post
The post quickly ignited backlash, with many calling it an unnecessary controversy.
“Honestly it feels like you’re the one trying to stir up controversy out of nothing.”
“If I were Wonyoung, I’d get chills seeing my own fans attacking her members, who she treasures most, just over the center position…”
“Why is this even a controversy? IVE was never a group with a fixed center. They don’t even have official positions. Why blow this up into something unnecessary?”
“I really wish they’d just sue everyone who crosses the line. Starship, please read your emails. Everyone knows you monitor Pann, so just go ahead and post a lawsuit notice.”
“What kind of controversy is this? It’s hilarious.”
Starship Entertainment has not commented on the center position debate amid fan reactions. The situation continues to be a hot topic as IVE’s new comeback approaches.
