The 2025 Asia Star Entertainer Awards (ASEA) became a hot topic after aespa’s acceptance speech took an unexpected turn. The group won three awards but faced mixed reactions for their playful behavior on stage. While some fans found it endearing, others called it unprofessional.
On May 28, aespa received The Platinum Award, Song of the Year for Supernova, and Artist of the Year at the Yokohama K-Arena in Japan. During their first speech for The Platinum, member Karina accidentally called the group aespo instead of aespa. This led to uncontrollable laughter, with Karina unable to continue speaking.
💙: In the future aespo…aespo? aespa *laugh* ⭐️: In the future…aespa *laugh* 🦋: Pls give aespa a lot of love in the future
NOT AESPA KEEP LAUGHING BCS THEY MISPRONOUNCED THEIR GROUP NAME. THEY’RE SO UNSERIOUS PLS😭 pic.twitter.com/ptMB3jlMX0
Winter tried to take over but also burst into laughter, turning away from the microphone before saying, “I can’t do this!” Ningning finally ended the speech with a quick “Thank you” in Japanese. The moment went viral, with many fans calling it funny and relatable.
However, some netizens criticized the group for being disrespectful. Comments included:
“Wow honestly it’s not that funny..” “They’re acting like the world revolves around them and the rest of the people are just npcs..” “This is their workplace and they are acting extremely unprofessional.”
The criticism intensified due toKarina’s recent controversy. A social media post showed her wearing a red jacket with the number 2, which some interpreted as political support for South Korea’s conservative party. Though she apologized, the timing made the laughter seem insensitive to some.
Despite the backlash, many fans defended aespa. They pointed out that awards shows should be fun and that the group’s genuine reactions were refreshing. Others noted that idols are human and make mistakes.
aespa wasn’t the only big winner at ASEA 2025. ENHYPEN won Album of the Year for ROMANCE : UNTOLD and Top Touring Artist. BLACKPINK’s Jisoo took home Best Solo (Female), while NiziU won Best Group (Female).
The awards ceremony was hosted by IVE’s Rei and THE BOYZ’s Juyeon. Performances included acts from aespa, ENHYPEN, NCT WISH, and NiziU. The second day will feature ZEROBASEONE, (G)I-DLE, and BTOB.
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