aespa NingNing, a familiar name in the world of K-Pop, is setting her sights on new horizons.
The singer is poised to make her debut on a Chinese reality show, a move that has instigated a robust discourse among the public, particularly those from her home country, South Korea.
The Big Leap
NingNing, a proud Chinese national, is preparing to step onto a different stage as a mentor on the upcoming survival reality show, "The Next Stage 2023."
This debut in her homeland marks a significant moment in her career and serves as a milestone in her international repertoire.
Public Concern
The K-Pop star's venture into the Chinese entertainment industry has received mixed responses from her Korean fan base.
Concerns arise from historical precedents where Chinese K-Pop members have shifted focus to their career in China, often leading to their departure from their original groups.
A notable example of this trend is Hangeng from Super Junior, who left the group and SM Entertainment to pursue a solo career in China after filing a lawsuit against his agency.
230614 aespa #NINGNING is confirmed to serve as mentor on a Chinese TV Show ‘The Next Stage 2023’ (舞台2023)
— aespa International (@aespaintl) June 14, 2023
This is her first appearance on a Chinese show since her debut#aespa #닝닝 #宁宁 @aespa_official pic.twitter.com/k3OCV9rqdW
Similarly, Kris Wu, Luhan, and Tao from EXO made headlines when they left the group and their agency, SM Entertainment, to further their individual careers in China.
These instances have led to an ingrained concern among fans whenever a Chinese K-pop star expresses a desire to work in their home country, fearing that history may repeat itself.
NingNing's recent career move has clearly touched a raw nerve, reviving these apprehensions among the public.
Support for NingNing
However, a significant segment of the audience comes to NingNing's defense, crediting her loyalty and dedication towards her Korean promotions.
One fan wrote, "NingNing unjustly bears the brunt of criticism more than her Chinese contemporaries, despite her refraining from making any politically charged statements. Others who have openly supported the One China policy still successfully promote in Korea."
Criticizing the Decision
Critics have raised eyebrows at the choice of NingNing as a mentor due to her relative inexperience in the industry.
A fan voiced, "Newbies in the industry are being appointed as mentors - the roles implying leadership and teaching. Surely, a seasoned professional would have been more fitting."
Unfounded Criticisms
Notwithstanding the controversy, some believe that the criticisms are largely unwarranted. A supporter said, "This negativity began with the news of her Weibo account. It's become a trend to target her unfairly."
A Question of Nationality
A segment of fans remind critics that NingNing's nationality should not pose an issue in her participating in the Chinese broadcast, citing the recent news of Jay Park's appearance on a Chinese show as a precedent.
Company Decisions
Skeptics also voice concern over the company's decision, referencing past experiences with idols from the same country.
Still, others highlight the financial gains for SM Entertainment, NingNing's label, as a primary motivation behind the move.
"The Next Stage 2023" is slated to begin production soon and will air later this year.
As the world watches NingNing's move into the Chinese market, it's clear that this decision will continue to fuel passionate conversations among fans, critics, and industry insiders alike.
