BREAKING: aespa’s member Ningning will not perform at Japan’s 76th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen after a viral petition gained nearly 90,000 signatures demanding a boycott of the group. The controversy erupted following a social media post from Ningning, which included a decorative light resembling a mushroom cloud, prompting accusations of insensitivity towards the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
The backlash intensified, leading to significant social media outrage, as many Japanese netizens claimed that Ningning’s post trivialized historical events. In response to the growing criticism, officials from SM Entertainment clarified that the post was made without any political or historical intent. However, the damage was done, and public sentiment remained hostile.
On December 29, 2025, SM Entertainment announced that Ningning would miss the performance due to health issues, specifically a diagnosis of influenza. The agency stated she was advised to prioritize her recovery. Consequently, the remaining members, Karina, Giselle, and Winter, will perform without her at the highly anticipated event.
In their official statement, SM Entertainment acknowledged the backlash, saying, “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.”
This decision has not quelled the outrage among fans and netizens. Many Korean fans expressed disbelief that aespa would still attend the festival, with calls for a complete boycott of the event. Comments flooded social media platforms, with users questioning the necessity of attending while excluding one member. “They should’ve just not gone,” remarked one user, reflecting a widespread sentiment among supporters.
Critics argue that attending the festival could further damage aespa’s reputation and brand. The group has faced a series of controversies recently, raising concerns about their public image and potential impacts on brand deals. As tensions escalate, the situation remains fluid, with fans anxiously watching for any further developments.
The NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen, a prestigious annual event in Japan, continues to be a focal point of this unfolding drama. With aespa’s performance now altered, the impact of Ningning’s absence will be closely scrutinized by fans and critics alike.
As the situation evolves, fans are urged to stay tuned for updates. The next steps for aespa and how they navigate this controversy will be crucial in shaping their future engagements and public perception.
