Should LE SSERAFIM Receive an Apology? Netizens Highlight “Double Standards” in K-Pop Performance Standards

Netizens Demand Apologies for LE SSERAFIM Following Coachella Backlash

In recent discussions, many fans have voiced the opinion that LE SSERAFIM deserves an apology. This sentiment gained traction after the girl group’s performance at Coachella 2024, which, while lauded for its visual appeal and stage presence, faced intense criticism regarding their live vocal execution. The backlash was so pronounced that LE SSERAFIM felt compelled to publicly address the critiques aimed at their performance, acknowledging the disappointment of their audience, as highlighted in reports.

Fast forward to Coachella 2025, and netizens are now drawing attention to perceived double standards within the K-Pop industry. During this year’s festival, performances from BLACKPINK members, Lisa and Jennie, as well as ENHYPEN, received enthusiastic accolades. However, observers noted the considerable use of backing tracks during these sets. Comments from fans included remarks like, “Lisa, why is the backtrack so prominent?”and “I noticed most of Jennie’s vocals were overshadowed by a loud backtrack.” Such observations have raised eyebrows regarding the consistency of standards applied to different artists.

These discussions have led many to reflect on LE SSERAFIM‘s previous performance, where they were condemned for utilizing a backtrack, a tactic seemingly accepted for other K-Pop artists. One netizen expressed frustration, stating, “Is LE SSERAFIM the only group scrutinized for using backtrack at Coachella?” Another user commented, “Given the K-Pop performances this year, it’s clear that LE SSERAFIM absolutely deserves an apology for the unfair treatment.”This sentiment resonated widely, as echoed in online discussions.

after seeing the kpopchella sets this year… yeah le sserafim deserve the biggest apology pic.twitter.com/M41LajIVjw

— 🪽 (@kthsjin) April 14, 2025

so lesserafim is the only artist who’s not allowed to use backtrack at coachella pic.twitter.com/8VsKSXDODG

— ami^ྀི (@tzyunjz) April 12, 2025

been watching some coachella performances this year and no disrespect to other artists i just gotta give props to le sserafim for going all out with raw vocals, intense choreo and barely any backtrack during weekend one last yearpic.twitter.com/kAkYGWu0Ia

— L (@gwangsoonnie) April 14, 2025

This ongoing debate illuminates the complex dynamics K-Pop artists navigate when performing live, particularly against the backdrop of expectations surrounding vocal quality and the acceptance of backing tracks. The contrasting responses to LE SSERAFIM and their peers suggest that public opinion may vary significantly based on individual artist perceptions, raising questions about fairness in evaluation.

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