UPDATE: In a developing story, aespa member Ningning will not perform at Japan’s 76th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen due to a health issue, just as a viral petition demanding the group’s boycott nears 90,000 signatures. The controversy erupted after Ningning shared a photo of a decorative light resembling a mushroom cloud, leading to accusations of insensitivity regarding the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
The backlash intensified online, prompting SM Entertainment to clarify that the post was not made with political intent. Nevertheless, the controversy has sparked outrage among netizens. In an announcement made on December 29, 2025, SM confirmed that Ningning had been diagnosed with influenza and would be focusing on her recovery, resulting in her exclusion from the event. Instead, Karina, Giselle, and Winter will perform without her.
“While the post was not made with any specific purpose or intent, it nonetheless caused concern among some viewers,”
stated SM Entertainment in their announcement. They expressed their commitment to exercising greater caution moving forward.
Despite the official explanation, many Korean netizens are challenging the decision to proceed with the performance at all. Comments on social media reflect a growing sentiment that the group should entirely boycott the festival. Users have voiced their confusion and frustration, questioning the value of attending an event that excludes one member.
Critics argue, “They should’ve just not gone,” and “What do they even gain by going there? Celebrating the war’s end again?” The sentiment is clear: fans feel strongly that the group should not participate amid the ongoing backlash.
This controversy comes as aespa faces increasing scrutiny over multiple recent incidents that have led to significant public discontent. As the situation unfolds, many are watching closely to see how SM Entertainment will manage the group’s image and whether they will address the growing backlash directly.
The immediate question remains: Will aespa’s remaining members proceed with their performance, and how will this affect their standing both in Japan and globally? Fans are eager for answers, and the clock is ticking as the broadcast date approaches.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
