SM Entertainment Draws Scrutiny for Allegedly Mistreating aespa Karina — Here's Why

SM Entertainment is currently under fire for allegedly mistreating aespa member Karina.

Keep on reading for all the details.

SM Entertainment Draws Scrutiny for Allegedly Mistreating aespa Karina

Before her debut, Karina was once embroiled in rumors that she spoke badly of her SM Entertainment seniors. However, the company quickly denied the allegations and announced legal action against those who spread malicious rumors about Karina.

At the time, people criticized Karina for being the company "baby" and for being greatly favored by the label.

However, that notion has changed. Now, people believe Karina is the member who is treated the worst in aespa.

ALSO READ: From aespa to GFRIEND - Here are the Most Notable Events in K-Pop in 2021

On December 8, it was revealed that photos of Karina were deleted from aespa's official Instagram account. This caused outrage among MYs (aespa's fanbase), with people claiming the company was treating her worse than her other members.

Additionally, it was noted that since her debut, the number of individual Karina photos on the groups was the fewest, totaling 51 posts.

Meanwhile, Ningning, Giselle and Winter have 55, 55 and 57 posts, respectively.

ALSO READ: aespa Karina Named the Vocal Queen of K-Pop + See Whole List Here

This is not the first time Karina has been left out. In late June and early July, aespa's Weibo account shared photos of Winter, Giselle and Ningning. Unfortunately, the company had forgotten to upload Karina's photos. SM Entertainment belatedly uploaded Karina's images after fans trended hashtags and sent emails to the label.

During Karina's birthday in April this year, the idol did not have any special videos or content like the other three members. Instead, Karina held a live stream, and SM Entertainment shared photos of her to aespa's Twitter and Instagram Story.

ALSO READ: aespa Giselle is Finally Being Noticed for Her Visuals - Here's Why

In October, SM Entertainment shared polaroid photos that only featured Giselle, Ningning and Winter on Giselle's birthday. While Karina's arm could be seen next to Ningning, the aespa member was left entirely out of the frame. This caused outrage among MYs, as it appeared that the company was trying to exclude her from the image.

In aespa's mini-album, "Savage," Karina has the least number of singing lines. People also complained that Karina had not changed her hairstyle since her debut. The company has stuck with dark colors and long hair. The only different hairstyle she has is if they choose to curl it, straighten it, tie it or leave it down.

In addition, SM Entertainment was criticized for giving Karina outfits that are too short and tight, which is not convenient for performing on stage.

ALSO READ: aespa Karina Gains Attention for Stunning Visuals at the '2021 Visionary Awards'

In November, Karina had her first solo activity. The idol promoted Seoul with a short vlog series titled "Travel Diary: Sou; Seoul." However, despite how it was her first solo schedule, SM Entertainment barely promoted it. This left many unaware that Karina had her own schedule, to begin with.

How are People Reacting to Allegations that aespa Karina is Being Mistreated by SM Entertainment?

Many people are disappointed that SM Entertainment is treating Karina. People believe that she is being ignored by the label, which is disadvantageous for them, as Karina is the group's leader, center and face. She is arguably the most famous member, which is why people believe she deserves a stronger push in the spotlight.

Some comments concerning Karina's situation include, "Karina is the face of the group and many people became aespa fans because of her. Why is SM so unfair to her?" "Ever since 'Next Level,' SM Entertainment has purposely stifled Karina's reputation," "If SM Entertainment continues like this, I hope Karina will leave the company when aespa's contract expires," and "SM is probably doing it on purpose."

ALSO READ: aespa Karina Praised as a Living Doll During 'Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade'

What do you think of the situation? Tell us in the comments below!

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Written by Alexa Lewis