ENTERTAINMENT
aespa's Karina Addresses Fans After Unintentional Political Controversy
On the 9th, Karina communicated with fans through the platform Bubble, saying, "I've waited a long time. I've been practicing and preparing really hard as much as you've waited." She added, "I'm so sorry and thankful for worrying you all this time. How have you all been?" Expressing her genuine feelings, she also mentioned, "I missed you all so much." This message was her first lengthy communication with fans in about two weeks since the controversy.
The controversy began on the 28th of last month when Karina posted a photo taken on a Japanese street wearing an outfit featuring the number '2' and a combination of red and black colors. Some netizens interpreted this politically, especially since the post coincided with the upcoming 21st presidential election, which fueled the controversy.
In response, SM Entertainment apologized, stating, "We apologize for causing concern with Karina's post. It was merely a casual sharing of her daily life with no political intent." The agency further explained, "We deleted the post immediately upon realizing it could be misunderstood, and we sincerely apologize for any unintended concern."
At the time of the controversy, Karina also personally apologized to fans. She said, "I'm really sorry for making you worry. There was no such intention, but seeing the misunderstanding grow and MYs (fan club name) getting worried, I felt I needed to speak directly." She assured, "I will be more careful in the future."
Meanwhile, aespa, the group Karina is part of, is set to release their new single 'Dirty Work' on the 27th.
