UPDATE: aespa’s member Ningning will not perform at Japan’s 76th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen after a viral backlash over a controversial social media post. The decision comes amid escalating demands for a boycott of the event, with nearly 90,000 signatures on a petition urging the girl group to withdraw entirely.
The situation intensified when Ningning shared a photo of a decorative light resembling a mushroom cloud, which Japanese netizens deemed insensitive, linking it to the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Despite Ningning’s post being labeled as casual and unintentional by SM Entertainment, the backlash did not subside, leading to a significant public outcry.
In a statement released on December 29, 2025, SM Entertainment revealed that Ningning would sit out the performance due to health reasons, specifically a diagnosis of influenza. The agency confirmed that she was advised to rest and focus on her recovery. Consequently, aespa will perform with members Karina, Giselle, and Winter only.
“We have received many comments and concerns regarding content that aespa member NINGNING posted on social media. While the post was not made with any specific purpose or intent, it nonetheless caused concern among some viewers,”
SM Entertainment stated. The agency acknowledged the criticism and emphasized their commitment to caution in the future.
Despite the cancellation of Ningning’s participation, reactions among Korean netizens have been overwhelmingly negative. Many are questioning the group’s decision to attend the festival at all, arguing that it undermines the seriousness of the situation. Comments like “They should’ve just not gone” and “Why are they doing this?” reflect a growing sentiment that the group should completely boycott the event.
This controversy represents a significant challenge for aespa, as they navigate public perception and potential impacts on their brand. Critics have voiced concerns that ongoing issues could jeopardize valuable brand deals and the group’s reputation.
As the situation develops, fans and netizens alike are closely monitoring aespa’s next steps. The group’s partial appearance at the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen raises questions about the future dynamics within the band and their relationship with their fanbase.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.
