“Really went and wasted his potential” - TXT' Yeonjun’s solo debut song GGUM draws mixed reactions online

Yeonjun of TXT is currently experiencing mixed reactions online following the release of his highly anticipated solo debut track, GGUM. Released on September 19, 2024, the track has sparked a divide among fans, with some praising his performance and others expressing disappointment, feeling that the song didn’t quite align with his persona.

Despite the differing opinions, the track has garnered significant attention, achieving impressive streaming numbers and breaking several records within just 24 hours of its release. One netizen took to X (formerly twitter) and said:

"they really went and wasted his potential on a song that sounds like hot a*s"

A fan reaction on X (image via X/@viviwkhvv)

The mixed reviews have not hindered the song's success, as it continues to dominate streaming platforms, showing that both support and critique can coexist in a highly competitive music landscape.

“Y’all acting like his solo was gonna sound exactly like a txt song, its a yeonjun solo of course its gonna sound different because its his own craft,” a fan defended.

“This is actually good..” a fan exclaimed.

“IT'S SO GOOD IT'S SO HOT I LOVE IT,” another fan exclaimed.

“The force hate indicated that yeonjun is THAT boy,” a fan said.

Some critical comments included,

“Can he unrelease it?” Another person said.

“Is it safe for me to say that I don't like this? Like im sorry I love yeonjun but im not a fan of it,” a displeased fan said.

“He’s so talented, he could do so much better than... this,” someone expressed.

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Yeonjun's GGUM leaves the internet divided

Yeonjun of TXT released his debut solo track, GGUM, on September 19, 2024. The bold, hip-hop-inspired song is characterized by its intense choreography and distinct swagger. During an interview with USA Today on the day of release, he explained the inspiration behind the song, comparing its energy to the act of chewing gum, which he says "exudes confidence" and perfectly suited him for his first solo project.

However, GGUM has sparked mixed reactions within the TXT fandom and the broader K-pop community. Some fans have been quick to label him the "4th generation IT boy," celebrating the unique direction he took with the song. Others, however, felt that the track didn't meet their expectations, with some comparing it to other K-pop songs, commenting that it felt different from what they were used to.

Fan discussions on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) reflect this divide, with one fan pointing out how GGUM breaks the mold, noting the irony of complaints that "all K-pop sounds the same," yet when something different emerges, it faces criticism. Many supporters have rallied to defend him, appreciating his willingness to step outside the usual boundaries.

Despite the varied reception, GGUM has performed impressively on the charts, achieving several milestones:

1. #1 Trending on YouTube Worldwide
2. #1 on the LINE Music Real-time Chart
3. #1 on iTunes Worldwide Songs Chart
4. #1 on iTunes in 32 countries
5. #2 on the European iTunes Song Chart
6. #3 on the Melon Hot 100
7. #8 on Bugs
8. #26 on Melon’s Old Chart
9. #60 on Melon’s Top 100
10. #65 on Genie

On September 20, 2024, Yeonjun performed GGUM on Music Bank, alongside MCs Eunchae and Moon Sangmin, who were also seen dancing next to him. Studio Choom has also released the dance performance for this track.

Overall, Yeonjun's GGUM stands as a bold artistic choice, and while it has sparked differing opinions, its success on the charts speaks to its impact.