Koreans “Embarrassed” By aespa’s Recent Performance In America

“They should only perform locally.”

aespa recently appeared on Good Morning America and performed their latest track “Rich Man.” While the group’s global popularity continues to rise, reactions back home in Korea were mixed.

aespa performs “Rich Man” live on Good Morning America

GOOD MORNING AESPA#aespa #aespaOnGMA #GoodMorningAmerica @aespa_official pic.twitter.com/RLyVK1AfzK

— Jazz (@mjkmwntr) September 12, 2025

Whiel some Korean netizens expressed pride at seeing a K-Pop girl group on such a major U.S. stage, but others admitted they felt “embarrassed” by the performance quality. Critical comments pointed to the group’s live vocals, stage presence, and lack of dancers, with some suggesting that it didn’t highlight aespa’s usual strengths.

| theqoo

• I can’t think of anything else but “what to do…” I’m so embarrassed. Why did they go and perform?
• Why did they perform overseas? They should only perform locally.
• There’s 0 strength in their dance.
• Were they always this bad at dancing?
• Aren’t they going to sing live? And their dancing is basically flailing around LOL. I was watching it and I got second-hand embarrassment.
• Why did they not bring dancers?

Koreans continued to wonder if whether aespa’s U.S. promotions enhance or damage K-Pop’s global reputation. It seems like international audiences are in full agreement. You can read more about international netizens’ opinions below.

aespa Receive Scathing Reviews For “Mess” Performance On “Good Morning America”