If you’re unfamiliar with the world of K-pop, you may not realise just how popular the Pepero Challenge is. The game involves two idols (usually of the same gender and from the same group), with one holding one end of a Pepero biscuit in their mouth while the other bites the opposite end until it breaks. This means there’s always the possibility of their lips touching.
The game may seem innocent enough, but fans are always quick to react to this kind of skinship between members. TOMORROW X TOGETHER (투모로우바이투게더) are the latest idol group to take on the challenge, and the video has caused a meltdown across social media. Watch:
Over the weekend, SBSKPOP X Inkigayo shared a video featuring members of TXT taking part in various games and challenges during the latest episode of their variety segment. One of the highlights was the famous Pepero Challenge. Leader Soobin (수빈) and maknae Hueningkai (휴닝카이) teamed up for the game, and the result sent fans into a frenzy.
Before starting, the 22-year-old asked his older member for consent, warning that he was planning to go “all in” to complete the challenge. Sure enough, the singer did just that. As seen in the screenshots above, Hueningkai tilted his head while gently holding Soobin’s as he ate the Pepero biscuit from his end, continuing until their lips appeared to touch, leaving just a 1cm piece of the treat. The challenge continued with the other members also taking part – Beomgyu (범규) was paired with Taehyun (태현), while Hueningkai had to do the challenge again, this time with Yeonjun (최연준).
Soobin and Hueningkai’s Pepero Challenge instantly went viral online, with MOAs (TXT fans) and K-pop enthusiasts alike expressing both amusement and surprise. Many were excited by the two members taking the challenge to the extreme, while others shared clips of other idols who have also gone viral for participating in this intimate game. Fans also defended TXT against “queerbaiting” allegations, emphasising that the members are simply very comfortable with each other and that their music sales continue to thrive.
Would you take on the challenge with your group members? Do you think you can break Soobin and Hueningkai’s record?
Watch the full episode below, or skip to 26:40 for the viral moment:
