Multiple Idols Flamed For “Shocking” Reactions To BLACKPINK Jennie’s Performance

A video capturing idols’ reactions during BLACKPINK Jennie’s performance at the Melon Music Awards has sparked backlash online.

After the clip spread on YouTube and X (formerly Twitter), Korean netizens began criticizing the attitudes of several idols shown in the audience, including members of aespa, IVE, RIIZE, ALLDAY PROJECT, and others.

The controversy centers on how some idols were seen watching the stage. Netizens pointed out that a few appeared seated with relaxed postures, clapping lightly or not reacting much at all. This quickly led to claims that the response lacked basic courtesy, especially given Jennie’s seniority and status in the industry.

Compared to the reaction during G-Dragon and EXO’s sets, netizens felt Jennie was severely disrespected by the younger idols.

• “People say idol discipline culture is basically dead these days, guess there’s not even any sense of hierarchy anymore lol.”
• “Wowㅋㅋ… even standing up and applauding wouldn’t be enough, but they’re sitting down, and some of them even have their legs crossed. And they’re not even clapping in front of their chest, but on top of their own legs… you can’t even hear the clapping. An artist who deserves strong applause doesn’t get treated like this even overseas, and with live performances too…”
• “Jennie getting treated like this? Do they really think they’re something special?”
• “It doesn’t look like there’s even a shred of respect.”

• “Wow, seriously some of them are really acting all high and mighty and cold lol. Actors got absolutely dragged for their attitudes at award shows and then changed after that. Did you learn nothing from seeing that???? This is part of social life too, guys. Do you not know how to function socially?”
• “I think this was one of the best MMA stages ever, but the reaction was ridiculously weak.”
• “As a Jennie fan, this is really upsetting… I’m at least thankful to the people who did react. Isn’t this way too different compared to the reactions EXO and G-Dragon got? If that’s all the reaction they’re going to give, they might as well give me that seat instead.”
• “I clicked to watch the reactions, but at some point I was only watching Jennie in the little screen LOL. I just went to watch the stage video instead.”