ZEROBASEONE member Ricky addressed intense online criticism on September 16, 2026, after a translated social media screenshot incorrectly claimed he called the horror film OBSESSION “cute.” According to reporting by outlets like KpopHit and Archyde, the controversy erupted when social media users flagged the film’s severe depictions of abuse against women, leading to a sharp division among fans before the idol pushed back against what he termed malicious translations.
The Translation Dispute Over the Film OBSESSION
The digital firestorm began on September 15, 2026, when a screenshot circulated online showing Ricky’s reaction to the horror movie OBSESSION. According to KpopHit, an alleged translation of the idol’s comment labeled the project “cute.” This phrasing triggered immediate backlash across social media platforms because the film is widely known for depicting extreme violence and non-consensual abuse toward a female character. Archyde noted that the movie features visceral scenes, including one where a character’s mouth is sewn shut with thread. Fandom reactions fractured quickly, with some users expressing frustration over perceived insensitivity while pointing to prior online controversies, as reported by Archyde and KpopHit.
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Ricky’s Social Media Clarification and Defense
Facing escalating accusations, Ricky took to social media on September 16, 2026, to address the matter directly. According to both KpopHit and Archyde, the idol explained that his words had been misinterpreted and maliciously translated. He clarified that he merely meant the film was not as scary as he had anticipated. To push back against the negative interpretations surrounding his commentary, Ricky added the statement, “If you look at something with a dirty eye, everything is dirty,” suggesting that critics intentionally chose to view his message through a hostile lens. While critics continued to voice disappointment, a vocal counter-movement of fans rallied to his defense, highlighting his direct clarification as proof that the original translation missed the mark.
Did you know?
In fast-moving K-pop fandom ecosystems tracked by digital media analysts, mistranslated social media interactions often escalate into major controversies within hours before artists or management can issue direct clarifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What started the online backlash involving ZEROBASEONE’s Ricky?
The backlash began when a translated screenshot circulated showing Ricky’s reaction to the horror movie OBSESSION with a comment labeling the film “cute,” which critics connected to the movie’s heavy abuse themes.
How did Ricky respond to the criticism?
According to social media updates reported by KpopHit and Archyde, Ricky clarified that his words were maliciously translated and that he only meant the film was not as scary as he expected.
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When did the controversy take place?
The initial screenshot and subsequent backlash spread on September 15, 2026, and Ricky addressed the accusations directly on September 16, 2026.
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d, without any additional comments or text. [/gpt3]
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