Recently, a clip resurfaced of actor Park Hyung Sik discussing his close-knit group of friends, the "Wooga Squad," which includes BTS's V (Kim Taehyung), sparking a debate among fans online. The Wooga Squad, known for their strong bond, also consists of actors Park Seo-joon and Choi Woo-shik, and musician Peakboy. The video in question is from a 2024 interview where Park Hyung Sik playfully described each member's role within the group, drawing a comparison to a family dynamic.
In this context, Park Hyung Sik likened Park Seo-joon to a father figure, Peakboy to the eldest son, and Choi Woo-shik to a playful second son. He then described V as the "immature maknae," using the Korean term for the youngest member. Park Hyung Sik added that he feels like he plays the role of the mother, often finding himself taking care of and helping the others.
While the remark was intended to be lighthearted and affectionate, some fans expressed discomfort, leading to online discussions about the nature of their friendship. Some fans were concerned that if a BTS member had used the same term to describe Taehyung, the reaction from some ARMY members would have been very negative. Others defended Park Hyung Sik, explaining that within the Wooga Squad dynamic, such playful teasing is common and reflects their close bond. The term "maknae" is often used in a fun and endearing way in K-pop culture, especially when describing a gregarious or vivacious youngest member.
Park Hyung Sik and V's friendship began in 2016 when they starred together in the drama "Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth". This shared experience formed the foundation of their bond, which later extended to include the other members of the Wooga Squad. The group is known for supporting each other's endeavors and publicly displaying their affection. Park Hyung Sik has consistently shown his admiration for V's talent, praising his solo work, such as the song "Rainy Days".
Despite any controversy, many fans have emphasized that the "immature maknae" comment was made in jest and reflects the comfortable and supportive dynamic within the Wooga Squad. They highlighted instances where V is free to be himself around his hyungs (older brothers), showcasing a playful side that might not always be visible in his public persona as a member of BTS. The Wooga Squad provides V with a safe space where he can relax and be himself, which is essential for stress relief, given the pressures of being a global icon.
Ultimately, the online debate underscores the complexities of interpreting interpersonal dynamics, especially within the context of celebrity friendships. While some fans may have initially raised concerns, the overwhelming sentiment is that Park Hyung Sik's comment was a sign of affection and familiarity, and the Wooga Squad continues to be a source of support and camaraderie for all its members.
