Koreans Critique aespa’s Performance on Good Morning America

aespa, the K-Pop girl group, recently performed their latest track “Rich Man” on Good Morning America on September 12, 2025. While their international presence is expanding, reactions from South Korean fans were mixed, with some expressing pride and others feeling disappointment over the performance.

The appearance on such a significant U.S. platform showcased the group’s growing global influence. However, many Korean netizens took to social media to share their concerns about the quality of the performance. Comments pointed out issues with the group’s live vocals, stage presence, and the absence of backup dancers, which some felt diminished aespa’s usual appeal.

One netizen wrote, “I can’t think of anything else but ‘what to do…’ I’m so embarrassed. Why did they go and perform? They should only perform locally.” Another added, “Their dancing is basically flailing around LOL.” These critical remarks highlight a divide among fans about whether aespa’s U.S. promotions are beneficial or detrimental to the K-Pop genre’s reputation on the global stage.

As discussions around aespa’s performance unfolded, many viewers questioned the effectiveness of the group’s strategies in reaching international audiences. Some criticized the decision to perform without dancers, suggesting that it did not showcase their strengths effectively. This has led to further speculation about the implications for K-Pop as it continues to seek acceptance in Western markets.

The online backlash also reflects broader concerns about maintaining the integrity of K-Pop while appealing to international fans. As aespa navigates this complex landscape, the reactions from both domestic and international audiences will likely influence their future promotional strategies.

In response to the criticism, it remains to be seen how aespa will adapt and evolve as they continue to make inroads into the American music scene. Their journey underscores the challenges faced by K-Pop artists as they balance local expectations with the demands of a global audience.