On the 13th, Aespa appeared on ABC's flagship morning show 'Good Morning America' (GMA) to perform their new song 'Rich Man,' marking their official entry into the U.S. market. However, fans both domestically and internationally criticized the performance, saying, "It's their first stage in the U.S., and it's not live?" and "It felt like watching a cover dance team due to the lip-syncing."
The stage production also drew criticism. Aespa performed without camera movements or backup dancers, relying solely on the four members. Some viewers commented, "Music show camera directors are amazing," and "I now understand the importance of backup dancers." During certain parts, some members were seen standing still, leading netizens to criticize, "If you're performing without dancers, the choreography should have been adjusted accordingly."
Amidst the negative perception, a video of leader Karina smiling at her members during the 'GMA' performance went viral. The video attracted comments like, "You're performing in the U.S., but your behavior doesn't match the song's mood," "Treating the U.S. stage like a Korean music show is inappropriate," and "As a leader, she should be more serious."
Karina also faced criticism for laughing during her acceptance speech at the 'Asia Star Entertainer Awards 2025' in Yokohama, Japan, on May 28, after mistakenly referring to 'Aespa' as 'Aespo.' Some commented, "Even during an award speech, she should have returned to a serious demeanor and finished her remarks."
Winter's past video has also resurfaced. About two weeks ago, a YouTube video titled 'Winter with a Punch' was uploaded. In the video, a staff member suggested a wig for Winter's bangs, to which Winter replied, "Can't I use my own bangs?" The staff member said, "Your hair is too thin for a full bang style." Winter responded, "Don't talk about my bangs like that. They can hear you," leading to mixed reactions from netizens, such as "Winter, bangs don't have feelings," and "The staff must have a tough job; she should be more polite."
Following the controversial 'GMA' performance, Karina and Winter interacted with fans through a live broadcast in their car, playing games like 'Whisper Challenge.' Some netizens criticized this, saying, "Why go live now?" and "Are they not aware of the situation?"
With the 'GMA' performance sparking various 'controversial' videos, Aespa's image continues to suffer. Is there a way to recover from these missteps?
The group Le Sserafim faced similar criticism after their live performance at the Coachella music festival in California, just a year and a half after debuting. They were criticized for their live singing skills, with comments like, "The title 'fastest debut entry' was too early for their career." Similarly, the group I-LIT faced backlash for their unstable live performance on a music show encore stage. Critics said, "Even as a rookie group, being part of a major agency like HYBE, they should have had better fundamentals."
Both groups took a break from public appearances, including university festivals, and returned with improved live performances. Some members of I-LIT, previously criticized, took on high-note parts after their break. Le Sserafim is now being recognized as a 'hardworking group,' gradually restoring their image.
Following Aespa's 'GMA' performance, many netizens are advising the members, "Skill controversies should be resolved with skill," and "The agency should help the artists develop a mature mindset." As Aespa recently made a comeback with 'Rich Man,' the public is keen to see what changes they will bring in their next album and performances.
By Dayeon Jeong, TenAsia Reporter light@tenasia.co.kr