URGENT UPDATE: aespa member Ningning will not perform at the 76th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen after a viral petition against the group surged to nearly 90,000 signatures. This controversy ignited when Ningning shared a seemingly innocuous photo of a decorative light resembling a mushroom cloud, triggering backlash from Japanese netizens who deemed it insensitive regarding the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
The situation escalated quickly, with many demanding a boycott of aespa’s performance. In response to the mounting criticism, SM Entertainment confirmed that Ningning will miss the event due to health issues, specifically a diagnosis of influenza. Doctors have advised her to prioritize recovery, leaving the group to perform with members Karina, Giselle, and Winter only.
On December 29, SM Entertainment issued a statement addressing the controversy and provided details on Ningning’s health. “While the post was not made with any specific purpose or intent, it nonetheless caused concern among some viewers. We will take greater care moving forward,” the agency stated.
Despite the official response, reactions from Korean netizens have been harsh. Many are questioning the group’s decision to attend the festival at all, expressing sentiments like, “They should’ve just not gone,” and “Why are they still sending the kids just for Kohaku?” The discourse reflects deep-seated emotions and a call for solidarity among the group’s fans.
In this tense environment, the implications for aespa’s future are significant. Ongoing controversies have already placed the group’s brand deals at risk, as fans express their dissatisfaction. Some have even expressed outrage over other incidents involving the group, which have compounded the negative perception.
As fans and critics alike watch closely, the fallout from this incident may shape aespa’s public image and future engagements. The situation remains fluid, with fans eager for updates on how the group navigates this challenging moment.
What’s Next: As the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen approaches, all eyes will be on the remaining members of aespa and their performance. Will the group address the controversy further, and how will their fanbase react to their appearance without Ningning? Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
