RIIZE's Anton smoothly responded to mocking comments accusing him of being a nepo baby.
On January 1, Anton revealed the 'Get A Guitar' dance challenge video filmed with his father, musician Yoon Sang, through the official RIIZE account. He posted the video with the caption "real 'Baby'" noting that he's Yoon Sang's real son.
While the video garnered enthusiastic response and attention from fans, one netizen left a comment saying, "NEPO BABYYY." Derived from the English word 'Nepotism,' NEPO BABY is an expression mocking someone who enjoys opportunities based on family favoritism rather than their own abilities.
In response, Anton replied with the comment, "Born This Way by Lady Gaga."
Lady Gaga's song sings, "Just put your paws up 'Cause you were born this way, baby," "My mama told me when I was young, 'We are all born superstars'," and "There's nothing wrong with loving who you are."
After seeing the negative comment from that netizen, many K-pop fans expressed astonishment and came to defend Anton. His fans asserted that Anton was able to earn his spot in the group through his looks and talent. These fans defended the idol, stating that Anton would have successfully made the SM Entertainment audition and would have debuted with the group even if he wasn't Yoon Sang's son.
Debuting on September 4, RIIZE received praise from K-pop fans for their enjoyable music, outstanding singing and dancing skills, and harmonious member composition with songs like 'Siren,' 'Get A Guitar,' and 'Talk Saxy.' Their debut single quickly became a million-seller, topping various charts and earning accolades at music awards in the previous year.
Wow, so shocking that the child of a musician would like music and want to become a musician. It's almost as if they would have grown up around music.