XLOV's Wumuti Praised for Quickly Defusing Fan Mistranslation Drama

XLOV leader Wumuti is receiving praise online after quickly stepping in to stop a misunderstanding caused by a mistranslated fan message, turning what could have been a fan conflict into a moment of calm understanding and support.

The issue began when a fan sent Wumuti a Chinese message saying, "Muti, eat lighter foods," meant as a caring reminder to eat milder, less spicy meals for health reasons. But an automatic translation tool changed the meaning to "Muti, eat a lighter diet!"

The wording spread quickly, with some fans thinking it was a comment about weight loss, leading to rising confusion and criticism online. Before the situation escalated further, Wumuti stepped in to clear things up himself.

According to Koreaboo, in a message addressing the misunderstanding, he explained that the translation was incorrect and shared the real intention behind the fan's words.

"I think the translation here is a bit off! Since I eat spicy food a lot, they were just looking out for me and telling me to eat something mild sometimes lol," he said.

Fans were relieved by the clarification and praised him for acting quickly, saying his response protected the fan from unfair backlash and helped calm the online conversation.

Wumuti Praised for Calm Response

Many also pointed out how easily automatic translation tools can distort meaning in global fandom spaces where fans and idols communicate across different languages. The moment has since spread across fan communities, with supporters highlighting Wumuti's attentiveness and emotional awareness in handling the situation without delay or hostility.

Beyond the viral moment, Wumuti also continues to stand at the center of XLOV's growing identity as K-pop's self-described "genderless" group, KoreaJungAngDaily reported.

Speaking during a recent showcase for the group's second EP "I, God," he described XLOV as a team built on transformation and self-expression.

"With this album, we wanted to portray XLOV as those who were once scarred and incomplete, becoming whole and evolving into divine beings who can guide those who are lost, just as they once were," Wumuti said.

XLOV, formed under 257 Entertainment (now acquired by RBW's subsidiary), debuted with a concept that challenges traditional gender norms in K-pop.

The group—made up of members from China, Taiwan, Korea, and Japan—blends masculine and feminine styling to promote individuality over labels.