Criticism of LE SSERAFIM’s Chaewon for Poor English Proficiency

Recently, LE SSERAFIM joined the ranks of K-pop groups performing and winning awards at the VMAs. This year, the group received multiple opportunities from their company to enter the international market, including performances at Coachella, promotions on American television, and most recently, a stage appearance at the VMAs.

Although LE SSERAFIM is gaining popularity, they have yet to achieve full recognition from the public due to perceived skill gaps. Alongside discussions about their live singing capabilities, the group has faced criticism regarding the language proficiency of its members.

As a group focused on international appeal, English is a significant aspect of their public persona. Within LE SSERAFIM, main vocalist Huh Yunjin brings her American background, while Japanese member Kazuha demonstrates strong communication skills. Consequently, during interviews or performances overseas, Yunjin and Kazuha often take the lead in engaging with the audience.

At the recent VMAs, LE SSERAFIM attracted considerable attention from international media. As per usual, Yunjin handled most of the interviews. However, during one interaction, leader Kim Chaewon encountered a challenging English question, leading to visible confusion and an inability to respond.

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♬ CRAZY (David Guetta Remix) – LE SSERAFIM & David Guetta

When Yunjin attempted to translate the inquiry into Korean for Chaewon, she still struggled to respond. Kazuha ultimately stepped in to answer for her, even as Chaewon tried to maintain a composed demeanor.

This incident quickly spread across social media, garnering numerous critical comments. Observers mocked LE SSERAFIM for what they perceived as essential deficiencies required to thrive in the global market. Chaewon’s struggle to understand a basic question, which left her fellow members without guidance, drew harsh criticism, with accusations of a lack of effort in improving her English skills.

Many netizens compared LE SSERAFIM to other contemporaneous girl groups. Particularly, in contrast to NewJeans, LE SSERAFIM’s English skills appeared weaker. Additionally, youngest member Eunchae also displays challenges with English fluency, leading to another moment of embarrassment for Chaewon.

Nonetheless, the group’s fans have presented various defenses for their idol. They argue that language skills are skills that can develop over time. Some fans suggest that there are “double standards” at play against LE SSERAFIM, noting that many Korean idols who struggle with English often receive more leeway, while Chaewon faces undue criticism due to preexisting bias. Many fans maintain that LE SSERAFIM possesses enough English proficiency, given their diverse linguistic backgrounds with three foreign members.

Source: K14