LE SSERAFIM Slammed by Korean Netizens for “Disastrous” Live Singing — Is There Still Hope for Redemption?
After a series of shocking encore stages featuring raw live vocals, LE SSERAFIM has once again come under fire from Korean netizens. Many brutally labeled them as a “national embarrassment,” accusing the group of tarnishing K-pop’s reputation. While the group’s lacking vocal skills are at the core of the backlash, their attitude—especially that of leader Kim Chaewon—has also sparked anger. She was slammed for being arrogant and seemingly disrespectful toward fans.
“This is the group HYBE is so protective of? It’s just shameful.”
“How do they still dare to perform with that attitude?”
Throughout 2024, LE SSERAFIM went from being a “princess” of the ‘five dragon’ lineup to the most hated girl group in K-pop. The vocal controversy wasn’t the only blow—HYBE’s internal media and legal feud with Min Hee Jin and NewJeans dragged the group deeper into public scorn. As HYBE’s most favored girl group, LE SSERAFIM became a symbol of “talentless privilege,” with accusations ranging from chart manipulation to stealing intellectual property.
The Coachella trauma still lingers
It’s impossible to overlook the infamous Coachella stage—widely criticized as an “international disaster” due to weak vocals and a lack of stage presence. Since that moment, the Korean public has almost completely turned their backs on the group. Despite achieving notable music milestones, LE SSERAFIM’s public image has only declined.
Signs of a turnaround?
However, things are starting to look up. In their recent comeback with the E.P HOT, LE SSERAFIM showed noticeable improvement. Although the release was initially overshadowed by G-Dragon and BLACKPINK’s return, the group began gaining attention again thanks to a more stable encore performance.
In their latest encore stage, netizens commented:
“At least this time, their vocals were clearer and had more power.”
“If they keep improving like this, I’m willing to give them another chance.”
Their title track HOT also began climbing the charts, breaking into MelOn’s Top 10—a feat they hadn’t achieved since the Coachella backlash. The group has also been actively promoting on music shows, in stark contrast to past accusations of being overly protected.
Redemption amid HYBE’s never-ending drama
HYBE’s prolonged conflict with Min Hee Jin hasn’t just affected NewJeans—it also indirectly shifted public perception of other groups. As NewJeans went from being the nation’s darlings to being accused of ingratitude, LE SSERAFIM—who bore the brunt of online hate—began to earn a second look.
“Can’t deny they’re tough as nails. So many scandals and they’re still standing.”
“People should at least acknowledge how hard they’re trying.”
Conclusion
Barely three years into their career, LE SSERAFIM has already weathered enough controversy to rival veteran idols. However, their persistence—seen in how they continue training, producing music, and promoting—may be the key to turning things around. While erasing the public’s resentment won’t be easy, if LE SSERAFIM keeps showing genuine effort, the Korean public might eventually come around.
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