aespa Faces Backlash Over Interaction with G-Dragon at MAMAs

The girl group aespa has come under scrutiny following their interaction with G-Dragon at the 2025 MAMAs. A video from the event has gone viral, showing G-Dragon walking to his seat in front of the group. As he approached, member Karina stood up, prompting the other members to follow suit. G-Dragon greeted them with a bow, but only Karina returned the gesture, while the other members either looked away or remained stationary.

Social media reactions have been swift and critical, with many users questioning aespa’s etiquette. Comments such as, “Is aespa allergic to bowing to seniors?” reflect the discontent among fans and observers. The video captured the moment on November 29, 2025, and the subsequent discussions have highlighted a divide in public opinion regarding the group’s behavior.

Reactions and Context

Despite the backlash, some netizens have come to aespa’s defense. They argue that the camera angle may not provide the complete picture of the interaction. Observers noted the nervous demeanor of the members, particularly Karina and Winter, who displayed uncertain body language during the moment. Winter was seen grabbing her heart after G-Dragon sat down, suggesting she may have felt overwhelmed.

Comments on social media varied widely. One user remarked, “Winter, my girl, I got ya. I would react the same as you,” expressing empathy for the group. Another pointed out Giselle’s fixation on G-Dragon’s hat, indicating a mix of admiration and nervousness in the situation.

While some fans have expressed disappointment over aespa’s perceived lack of respect, others have highlighted the stress that comes with such high-profile interactions. The pressures of public appearances can affect artists in unpredictable ways, leading to reactions that may not align with traditional expectations.

Moving Forward

As the discussions continue, aespa will likely reflect on this incident and consider how they wish to navigate their interactions with industry seniors in the future. The balance between maintaining their unique identity and adhering to cultural norms remains a delicate one for many K-pop groups.

This situation illustrates the complexities of fame in the entertainment industry, where every gesture is scrutinized. As aespa continues to grow in popularity, they will undoubtedly face more moments that challenge their public image and expectations from fans and peers alike. The incident with G-Dragon at the MAMAs serves as a reminder of the intricate dynamics within the world of K-pop.