In a recent episode of the popular Korean variety show "Knowing Bros," NingNing from the K-pop group aespa found herself at the heart of a controversy.
The star's witty comeback to a comment perceived as unsuitable by some has brought forth a hailstorm of varied opinions.
How the Controversy Started
The moment that sparked extensive debate among the viewers and NingNing's fans was when the singer was asked to discuss her ideal type in men.
The conversation took an unexpected turn when the aespa member stated that she prioritizes personality over physical appearance, leading some of the cast members to question her sincerity.
Super Junior's Heechul, seemingly playing along, pointed out co-star Kim Young Chul as possessing the best personality amongst the group, an assertion to which NingNing humorously responded, "So."
Fan Backlash: The Show and Cast Under Fire
Despite the apparent light-hearted exchange, it was the subsequent backlash that grabbed headlines.
The show, and particularly Heechul and Young Chul, faced criticism for their comments towards the young star, seen by some as inappropriate given Young Chul’s age.
oh god please cancel this show already iโm sick and tired of these old hags acting weird around young girls especially it pisses me off https://t.co/89DpVwx39V
— ara (@meltssmore) June 10, 2023
Social media platforms were flooded with posts from fans calling for the cancellation of the show, and a re-evaluation of its script that often leads to uncomfortable interactions with younger idols.
thereโs a lot of weird stuff in kpop but this dress idols in school uniform n have old creeps flirt with them show has to be one of the worst https://t.co/oH8c02hYdE
— the highest werewolf will ttyl ๐ (@aintnocrime) June 10, 2023
i need this show banned https://t.co/u9qdsm3hlU
— m (@ksgparks) June 10, 2023
Defending The Show: A Different Perspective
However, not everyone agreed with this stance. A considerable number of long-time fans rose to the defense of the show, arguing that it is scripted and NingNing was likely aware of the direction the conversation might take.
let me get this straight. youโre mad that hc set up a joke for nn to have a main character moment? he handed her an easy dunk that was sure to air and have her look good, and she nailed it and gagged everyone like she was meant to. do you understand how celeb interviews? https://t.co/sP651GtnZE
— st. arctic minkey ๐๏ธ๐ฎโจ (@arcticminkey) June 11, 2023
Some insisted that the comments were taken out of context and misunderstood, reflecting a lack of understanding of the show's format and concept.
The qrt and comment section shows that theyre not familiar with knowing bros ๐ I really miss the gen 1-2 fandom who are so chill and know how this type of varshow works
— luv (@sunsetdate) June 10, 2023
his fans collapsing and getting all personal, while favs take pictures with heechul and with Kibok. ๐ https://t.co/O5sSBmOiFa pic.twitter.com/4v4D6J2MRQ
— ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ (@KYUPIITER) June 11, 2023
aespa Relationship with Heechul: Adding another Dimension to the Debate
Adding another layer to the debate, some fans pointed out aespa's positive relationship with Heechul since their debut, arguing that the criticism towards him was misplaced.
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In their view, the jestful conversation was part of the show's setup to allow NingNing a shining moment, and not intended to make her uncomfortable.
While the controversy has brought the show "Knowing Bros" under scrutiny, it is important to note the scripted nature of the show, and the agency that idols have in choosing their participation.
Though the debate continues, it emphasizes the importance of context in understanding the dynamics of variety shows, and the fine line between humor and discomfort.
