Following her departure from the K-Pop group IZ*ONE, Kang Hye Won has transitioned into a full-time actress, captivating audiences with her performances on the screen.
Backlash Over Dance Covers
However, recent events have stirred controversy as Hye Won faced criticism for her K-Pop idol dance covers.
The backlash erupted after the former idol showcased her dance skills during a fan meeting, where she delighted attendees with renditions of popular tracks including aespa's "Drama" and Kwon Eunbi's "Underwater."
Echoes of Past Criticism
Critics pointed to what they perceived as a lack of energy and enthusiasm in Hye Won's performances, reminiscent of past criticisms during her time in IZ*ONE.
this isn’t drama this is a mild misunderstanding https://t.co/Ezezt0yy4n
— clc freedom era 🇵🇸 (@dantesicedlatte) February 4, 2024
her ability to hit all the moves but serve nothing is incredible https://t.co/p6tgkCRdUO
— your oomf will ttyl (@futchassemble) February 4, 2024
Netizens resurfaced claims of her appearing "bored" and "unbothered" while performing.
Even On Tiktok...
harsh comments https://t.co/aQPx6aVzIz
— jeanelyn estaura (@EstauraJeanely8) February 6, 2024
The reactions of Netizens were also extremely harsh like:
"SHE ATE THAT FACIAL EXPRESSIONS, HYEWON UNNIE"
"No face Expression Slay"
"How Does She DO IT... absolutely no expression on her face , It's Kid of impressive"
"At first Glance I thought it was WONHEE"
"can't believe that izone Had her and CHOWON and KAEUN"
READ ALSO: Former IZ*ONE Kang Hyewon Confirms She Has NO Plan to Pursue Singing Career
Defenders Speak Out
Despite the negative remarks circulating online, many netizens swiftly came to Hye Won's defense.
she apologizing on her last concert "i lack so much but thank you for everything" "u like me and think of me but i cant give anything back and it hurts to feel like i'm not good enough" n u guys still making fun of her?are guys out of your mind https://t.co/x9yy3YF0Ba
— nics.° kinda ia (@tinyjoyuls) February 4, 2024
the way ppl treat idols like hyewon and then get shocked when someone gets anxiety or goes on hiatus will forever blow my mind like deadass why are people so mean and harsh https://t.co/mzMIndrfux
— josiahh!🐧 (@urrfavonce_) February 5, 2024
and they'll ask why 4th gen is so boring and why 4th gen doesn't interact and do covers of each other's songs unless it's tiktok.. IT'S BECAUSE YOU'RE ALL LIKE THIS.
— vee (@eunbissii) February 5, 2024
khw is not even an idol anymore yet y'all are still pressed about everything. https://t.co/HVRyYQxiZM
"she still dgaf"
— gee 🌸🍉 (@shinsekai1903) February 4, 2024
well maybe bc she isn't an idol anymore? she's an actress so stfu.
"hasn't changed"
meanwhile y'all are there hiding behind a screen talentless & trying to talk shit while she's at her SOLD OUT fanmeeting dancing just fine, loved & booked for other dramas https://t.co/3JKqjfSbwt
Some argued that her shift from idol activities to acting meant that she hadn't been immersed in the K-Pop scene for a considerable period, while others highlighted the importance of supporting artists' mental well-being.
For more K-Pop news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KpopStarz.
KpopStarz owns this article.
Written by Cassidy Jones.
