Kim Eana, a renowned lyricist and radio host, has come under scrutiny for her remarks directed at rookie co-ed group ALLDAY PROJECT during their guest appearance on MBC FM4U’s 'Kim Eana’s Starry Night' on July 16(KST).
Group members Annie, Tarzzan, Bailey, Youngseo, and Woochan were invited to promote their debut songs 'FAMOUS' and 'WICKED' and to share their experiences since their official debut in June. However, parts of the interview sparked backlash from viewers who criticized Kim Eana for making condescending and awkward comments throughout the segment.
She began the interview by asking, "It’s only been 24 days since your debut. Isn’t the response too fast? That won’t make you arrogant, right?" She followed up with, "Isn’t it hard being in a co-ed group?"—a comment some interpreted as reinforcing outdated stereotypes.
In one exchange, Kim Eana speculated that Annie had the shortest training period among the members. When Annie shared her personal motto, “This too shall pass,” Kim Eana quipped, “Are you saying you want this radio show to end soon?”—a remark that left both the members and listeners visibly uncomfortable.
She also questioned Tarzzan, who had introduced himself as the team’s “troublemaker,” asking, “Have you actually caused any trouble? If not, you’re not really one.”
Following the broadcast, listeners criticized the tone and structure of the interview. Online comments included: “It felt like a job interview,” “She didn’t seem to know anything about the group,” and “Even the compliments came off as backhanded.” Some fans said the group members appeared visibly nervous and uncomfortable throughout.
ALLDAY PROJECT officially debuted in June and quickly garnered attention, in part due to Annie, who is known as the daughter of Shinsegae Group Chairwoman Chung Yoo Kyung. This has led to media and public labeling her as a “Chaebol idol,” though the group has been striving to establish their own identity beyond those headlines.
The controversy has sparked broader conversations online about the responsibility of veteran hosts to foster a more respectful and encouraging space for emerging artists—especially during their formative promotional stages.
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