YouTuber Wi Park and former SECRET member Ji-eun Song, the married duo behind the YouTube channel WERACLE, announced the launch of a paid membership — and the decision is already stirring fierce debate.
On April 16, WERACLE uploaded a video titled 'Please Become Part of the WERACLE Family.' In it, Park said, "As we mark seven years since launching the channel, we're starting a membership to connect more closely with subscribers." He added, "After a lot of thought, we wanted to build a 'family-ship' — a space to communicate with you more directly."
Song added, "We wanted to share deeper and more honest stories," explaining the reason behind the rollout. Priced at KRW 2,990 per month, the plan offers members exclusive vlogs, home-cooked meal content, and previously unreleased videos. The couple emphasized, "Since you're paying to join us, we'll repay you with even higher-quality content."
But the reaction was instantly split. Some viewers criticized the move, saying it "cheapens the sincerity we've seen for free so far," and questioned whether they were "turning communication into a business," arguing it "doesn't align with the 'positive influence' they used to stress." Given the channel's reputation for improving disability awareness and candidly sharing everyday life, critics argued the paywall clashes with its established image.
Others, however, voiced support: "No one's being forced to join," "Content creation costs money — it's understandable," and "It's a step toward even better content." The debate shows no signs of slowing.
Park became quadriplegic after a 2014 accident, but regained independence through rehabilitation and has since shared a message of hope. Through YouTube, he documented life in a wheelchair and his rehab journey, helping improve disability awareness and earning honors including the Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Award and the Seoul Welfare Award. The two married in 2024 and now share their daily life as a couple through their content.