Controversy Surrounding BABYMONSTER’s Talent Sparks Debate Among K-Netz and Japanese Fans

Japanese K-pop enthusiasts participated in a poll to determine the “least skilled K-pop girl group,”causing Korean netizens to express surprise at the outcome revealing BABYMONSTER as the chosen group.

In a recent poll conducted by Japan’s FLASH magazine titled “Least Talented K-pop Girl Group,”K-pop fans took notice and contributed to the results. The poll had a wide variety of participants, including middle-aged adults, office workers, and young people. In addition to voting, the magazine also featured comments from participants explaining the reasons behind the ranked placements of each group.

BABYMONSTER Selected As 'Least Talented K-Pop Girl Group' By Japanese Fans — K-Netz Divided — BABYMONSTER Selected As ‘Least Talented K-Pop Girl Group’ By Japanese Fans — K-Netz Divided(Photo : BABYMONSTER Weverse )

Despite having 500 participants, the outcome of the poll was unexpected. BABYMONSTER was declared the “least talented girl group,”after receiving 166 votes (around 33.2%). Voters expressed their surprise at the striking similarities between the members of BABYMONSTER, their lack of individuality, and their uneven dance abilities. Furthermore, the group was called out for their lack of stage presence.

Some of the comments made about BABYMONSTER were:

“They all look the same, have no personality, and look like any other person you can find anywhere.”(Woman over 50 years old, part-time employee)

“Their dance skills aren’t even.”(Woman over 30 years old, civil servant)

“They are not attractive compared to other groups.”(Teenage woman, student)

“Their performance did not move me.”(Man over 70 years old, unemployed)

Despite being ranked second on the list, aespa was heavily criticized for their supposed lack of personality, songs that sounded too similar, and poor live vocals. The third spot was taken by LE SSERAFIM, a popular girl group in both Korea and Japan. However, their high levels of lip-syncing sparked criticism and negatively impacted their reputation, despite their widespread popularity.

Some of the comments given on aespa and LE SSERAFIM were:

“Their (aespa) songs all sound the same, and their live singing isn’t very good either.”(Male, over 50 years old, company employee)

“It is clear that they (aespa) are not popular. Their movements seem a bit slow.”(Male, over 30 years old, freelance)

“I don’t like the way they (aespa) sing. They have no personality.”(Male, 60 years old, professional)

“This can be said about all K-pop groups, but their (LE SSERAFIM) visuals, music, and performance are all the same like I’ve seen them somewhere before. They lip-sync too much when performing.”(Male, 40 years old, temporary worker)

“When I saw LE SSERAFIM at Coachella, they often sang out of tune.”(Female, 20 years old, office worker)

The recent poll on South Korean online community forums elicited a variety of responses. While some expressed support for the criticisms against LE SSERAFIM, they did not agree with the negative remarks made about BABYMONSTER and aespa. Despite the difficulties they have faced with their music and image, BABYMONSTER has consistently impressed with their exceptional performance skills, which can be attributed to the rigorous training provided by YG Entertainment in singing, rapping, and dancing.

Despite the popularity of K-pop groups such as BABYMONSTER, aespa, and LE SSERAFIM, they have faced criticism from the Japanese audience. This is due to their strong, girl crush concepts, which may not be well-received by the Japanese public. This is seen as the primary factor for the harsh reception towards these groups.

A few remarks from K-Netz were expressed:

“I notice that all three groups have strong concepts. So… I don’t think this has anything to do with singing live. People just don’t like their concept.”

“BABYMONSTER, aespa, and LE SSERAFIM? I feel like Japanese people voted for these three groups because these groups tend to have different music styles, haha. Japan certainly has its preferences.”

“I can’t believe that BABYMONSTER was criticized for their talent.”

“But Japan also likes unique, strong concepts… I think BABYMONSTER is disliked because of Ahyeon. Like, I know she’s good. But I think she might be a little too much for their taste.”

“What are they talking about? BABYMONSTER and aespa are both super talented.”

“Are they joking?”

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