K-netizens React To Bang Si-hyuk Introducing Virtual Idol Similar To aespa’s Karina

On June 27th, it was reported by Korean media that HYBE would be introducing a virtual girl group named “SYNDI8”.

The futuristic concept and four-member lineup of this virtual girl group immediately drew comparisons to K-pop sensation aespa, causing a stir among fans and netizens who were quick to uncover the profiles of SYNDI8’s members and spark controversies.

They say a new Hive virtual girl group is coming out, but one of the members’ names is Canary, what the f*ck… pic.twitter.com/mUoKLfY8jB

— Supadupa (@SUPADUPAMY) June 27, 2024

One of the members in particular is CANARY. In Korean, the name CANARY (카나리) is written with the same characters as Karina (카리나), but in a different order. Not only do they share the same name, but CANARY’s profile, which includes details about their MBTI and height, is very similar to Karina’s.

Following the news, online communities such as theqoo were quick to engage in discussions about this issue. Netizens have been sharing their frustration over Bang Si-hyuk’s apparent fixation on aespa. One netizen, who goes by the username X (formerly Twitter), pointed out, “The name is eerily similar to that of a member from the group he previously had conflict with. Their MBTI types are also identical and even their heights match perfectly. It’s almost like Bang Si-hyuk has a crush on her (Karina) at this point.”

Similarly, there were also responses from other netizens on theqoo:

“Wait, are you serious? The group actually consists of 4 members?”

Is he very eager to have a group similar to aespa?

– Why is he so obsessed with Karina? It’s becoming a serious problem.

– This company is extremely frustrating.

– There are only 4 members, yet the group name contains 8. Are there AI members included in this virtual group as well?

– Initially, I mistakenly believed that the group name was The8… After all, SEVENTEEN has a member named The8 (디에잇), so it seemed peculiar to name the group SYNDI8 (신디에잇).

HYBE is wasting their money on pointless things.