Netizens Discuss LE SSERAFIM’s Absence From 2024 University Festivals

The month of May has been a busy one for both 4th and 5th generation idols, including aespa, IVE, NewJeans, (G)I-DLE, ITZY, NMIXX, StayC, Kiss Of Life, ILLIT, RIIZE, TWS, ATEEZ, and many more. These idols have been attending various university festivals. Additionally, solo artists and idols from older generations, such as Park Jin-young, Psy, Rain, Taeyang, Zico, Apink, EXID, Hwasa, Kwon Eun-bi, 10cm, Jannabi, MeloMance, Dynamic Duo, and others, have also been invited

Despite being one of the representative girl groups of K-pop’s 4th generation, LE SSERAFIM was noticeably absent from the university festival circuit in 2024. This is in stark contrast to the previous year when they were highly sought after for performances at various festivals. While other groups under HYBE, such as NewJeans and ILLIT, still made appearances, netizens are now questioning the reasons behind LE SSERAFIM’s absence from the festival lineup this year.

Some claimed that the reason for this was the difficult situation following the backlash over their live performance at Coachella. In April, LE SSERAFIM received criticism for their lackluster live singing abilities at one of the most prominent music festivals globally. Despite the negative feedback, member Sakura expressed frustration, stating, “We truly gave our best performance.”This sparked disappointment among netizens, as the girl group, who have continuously promoted a “fearless”image, has not shown any improvement in their skills over the years.

After the Coachella controversy, a dispute arose between HYBE and ADOR, and speculation continued to surround LE SSERAFIM, including the pro-Japan controversy. The situation was further compounded when some individuals brought up member Hong Eun-chae’s past inappropriate remarks and actions, causing the group’s image and reputation to suffer.

In response, some netizens expressed their thoughts, stating, “It may be for the best that they did not participate in the festivals,””Perhaps they are waiting for the negative public opinion to die down,””University festivals often involve live performances, so it is understandable that they chose not to perform,””It would have been uncomfortable for them to be on stage at a university festival after one of their members made a mocking comment about 12th grade students,”and “I hope to see the group return next year after they have addressed all the controversies.”

HYBE clarified to My Daily that LE SSERAFIM is putting in a lot of effort to ready themselves for their upcoming album in light of this matter.