TWICE’s Nayeon Criticized for Lip-Syncing After a Decade in K-Pop

The Lip-Sync Controversy Surrounding Nayeon of TWICE

A recent performance by TWICE during their world tour, titled This Is For, has sparked intense discussions among K-pop enthusiasts. Nayeon, the group’s main vocalist, has been accused of lip-syncing during a rendition of their popular song I Can’t Stop Me.

The Viral Clip and Initial Reactions

The video in question showcases Nayeon confidently commanding the stage with her charisma. Yet, observant fans pointed out instances where she lowered her microphone to engage in dance sequences, all while her vocals continued to flow seamlessly through the sound system. This prompted a wave of accusations regarding her authenticity during the live performance.

101125 THIS IS FOR SGI Can’t Stop Me Nayeon#NAYEON #TWICEinSG #TWICE_THISISFOR_SINGAPORE pic.twitter.com/OS9sm5SFeS

— Yeon (@yeonie129) October 16, 2025

Mixed Reactions from Fans

The allegations have left many fans disillusioned, particularly as Nayeon is often celebrated as TWICE’s “ace vocalist.” Throughout her career, she has garnered praise for her reliable performances during prestigious award ceremonies and global events. Critics, however, believe that for an experienced artist like Nayeon, slipping into lip-syncing territory is an “unacceptable” error.

Conversely, a significant number of fans have rallied to Nayeon’s support, asserting that incorporating backing tracks is a widespread practice at large concerts. They emphasize the challenge of delivering consistent audio quality while performing intricate choreography, especially in outdoor venues where acoustics can be variable.

Reviving Old Debates about Live Singing in TWICE

This situation has reignited discussions regarding TWICE‘s live performance capabilities. In their initial years, the group frequently faced similar accusations, often chalked up to inexperience and demanding choreographic routines. Yet, critics now argue that these justifications are less applicable given the group’s established presence in the K-pop landscape.

Adding fuel to the controversy, older performance clips have resurfaced, revealing instances where Nayeon appeared to neglect to keep her microphone positioned correctly, further fuelling the lip-syncing suspicions.

Defending Nayeon’s Singing Abilities

Despite the backlash, devoted fans have cited numerous instances of Nayeon singing live, including her acclaimed performance at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2025, as evidence that she does not typically rely on lip-syncing. Many believe that the recent viral footage is being unjustly scrutinized, arguing that it is inappropriate to evaluate her entire talent based on a single performance.

Nayeon performing at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2025

The Ongoing Debate in K-pop

This unfolding debate accentuates the persistent conflict in the K-pop industry between the quest for visual perfection and the expectation for genuine live performances. Whether or not Nayeon chooses to address this issue publicly, her undeniable stage presence is matched by the intense scrutiny she faces as one of K-pop’s most prominent figures.

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