The issue pertains to just one particular show.
On May 11th, aespa announced the postponement of the group’s concert, initially scheduled for July 7th, 2024, in Fukuoka, Japan.
Previously, the show received massive backlash from fans and netizens, particularly Chinese fans, for the insensitive date selection. July 7th is regarded as a day of mourning in China, as it marks the anniversary of events from the Sino-Japanese war.
In particular, CHINA NINGNING Bar, the largest fanbase for aespa’s Chinese member Ningning, vowed to take strong action against SM Entertainment and demanded the date change.
We demand @SMTOWNGLOBAL @aespa_official to change the date of the concert in Fukuoka Arena, Japan, which is to be held on July 7th, as it is a black day for the Chinese public due to the Sino-Japanese war. Respect your Chinese artist, Ningning, and fans. pic.twitter.com/myCvdkWLgf
— CHINA NINGNING Bar (@NingNing_Bar) May 1, 2024
Finally, it has been announced that aespa’s July 7th show will be postponed, while the July 6th show will push ahead as planned.
“Thank you very much for always supporting aepsa.
We want to inform you about the 2024 aespa LIVE TOUR – SYNK : PARALLEL LINE – in JAPAN performance, scheduled for July 7th, 2024 at the Marine Messe Fukuoka Hall A in Fukuoka.
Regarding the performance on Sunday, July 7th, we have received much feedback on domestic and foreign social media platforms, as well as various communication channels. SM Entertainment, the aespa members, and our staff members have discussed holding the 2024 aespa LIVE TOUR – SYNK : PARALLEL LINE – in JAPAN in the best possible way and decided not to hold the concert on Sunday, July 7th.
We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused for everyone looking forward to the performance. Details such as whether or not an alternative performance will be held and how to refund tickets are currently being arranged, so we will inform you again as soon as a decision has been made.
Once again, we apologize for causing you such an inconvenience. The performance on Saturday, July 6th will be held as scheduled. Thank you for your understanding.
We look forward to your continued support for aespa.”
– aespa JAPAN OFFICIAL