Hearts2Hearts’ Ian Draws Comparisons to aespa’s Karina: “An Upgraded Version?”
Hearts2Hearts’ rookie member Ian is quickly making waves online—and not just for her debut. A growing number of K-netizens are drawing comparisons between her and Karina, with some boldly calling Ian an “upgraded version” of the top-tier SM idol.
Karina has long been praised for her AI-like visuals and star presence, but this new wave of rookie buzz is reigniting debates about the current visual standard in K-pop.
As discussions spread across forums like Nate Pann, here’s a snapshot of what netizens are saying:
- It’s clear that Karina is top-tier—normally when a rookie group debuts, all the trolls and crazies shift their attention to the new idols, and the seniors start to lose buzz. But even when rookies debut, Karina still gets hate 😂 That just proves she’s a true star, for real.
- Another group debuts, but it’s aespa that gets bashed 😂 aespa really is the No.1 group.
- Nate Pann wouldn’t function without Karina, for real 😂😂😂
- Karina’s star power is just legendary.
- Stirring up drama.
- But honestly, if you compare debut-era photos or past pics, she’s even better than Karina in terms of visuals.
While some see the comparison as harmless admiration, others warn that it could stir unnecessary tension between fandoms. Still, one thing is clear: both Ian and Karina have the kind of presence that keeps people talking—and that alone is a mark of star power.
