Annie Moon Replaces Yoona, Fans Divided

Annie Moon replaces Yoona as MBC Gayo Daejejeon MC.
Her rookie status sparks debate over privilege and talent.
Fans await her live debut performance on December 31.

A surprising move has stirred the K-pop world as Annie Moon, a rookie member of the mixed group All Day Project and granddaughter of Shinsegae Group Chairwoman Lee Myung-hee, was officially announced as the new MC for MBC Gayo Daejejeon 2025, taking over from Girls’ Generation’s Yoona, who had hosted the show for a decade. The announcement immediately sparked heated debate online, splitting opinions between those who praised MBC’s courage to bring in a fresh face and those accusing the choice of being a product of nepotism.

On October 21, The Black Label confirmed that Annie would co-host this year’s end-of-year music festival alongside SHINee’s Minho and Hwang Minhyun. The decision marks Annie’s first-ever MC gig and her debut appearance in a major live broadcast, only six months after entering the K-pop scene. With Yoona leaving an irreplaceable legacy as a poised and elegant host, many fans questioned whether Annie’s selection was based purely on talent or influenced by her powerful family background.

From Rookie to Controversy

Annie’s appointment quickly became one of the hottest topics in Korean entertainment. The young artist, who studied Art History and Visual Arts at Columbia University, made her debut in June 2025 with All Day Project’s double-title tracks “FAMOUS” and “WICKED.” Both songs charted successfully, earning her group recognition as one of the year’s most promising debuts. Yet despite her achievements, Annie continues to carry the public label of a “fourth-generation chaebol idol,” a tag that seems to overshadow her hard work.

Critics argued that MBC’s move was unusual since Annie had never served as a special MC for weekly shows, something typically considered a stepping stone before hosting year-end festivals. Many pointed out that idols like Yoona, Wonyoung, and Sullyoon built hosting experience gradually before taking on prestigious events like Gayo Daejejeon. This contrast fueled speculation that Annie’s opportunity came from privilege rather than professional merit.

Netizen comments:

“Like it would’ve made sense for someone like Wonyoung to replace her…”

“She didn’t get an MC job. She got THE MC job when even Yoona needed more time. That’s what doesn’t sit right with people”

“People are mad because Annie Moon got the position instead of their fave, so they use nepotism against her.”

“To talk about nepotism, we need proof, which does not exist, it’s just gossip.”

“Every single idol starts from somewhere, why is it when Annie does it, it’s suddenly a problem?”

However, some fans came to Annie’s defense, emphasizing that her years of training and her strong on-screen charisma should not be dismissed. One widely shared comment read:

“Annie gets ONE MC job after months of work and suddenly it’s ‘her parents paid for it’. It’s disgusting how they reduce all her efforts to her family.”

Supporters also noted that idols such as Winter (aespa), Hanni (NewJeans), and Minju (ILLIT) all took on high-profile MC roles early in their careers without sparking similar outrage. They believe the criticism stems less from Annie’s lack of experience and more from the bias surrounding her family’s status.

Meanwhile, others chose a more neutral stance.

“My simple opinion, since it’s already decided, we just need to see how she turns out. Please don’t fight over something like this.”

Now, all eyes are on MBC Gayo Daejejeon 2025, airing live on December 31, where Annie will share the stage with seasoned hosts Minho and Hwang Minhyun. The pairing symbolizes the meeting of three generations: Minho, the veteran MC; Hwang Minhyun, returning after his military service; and Annie, the bold newcomer facing immense pressure to prove herself. Whether she can overcome public skepticism and carve her own path remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Annie Moon has already become one of the most talked-about figures in K-pop’s year-end spotlight.

Source: Sports Chosun, My Daily, Sports Seoul