aespa’s Ningning Was Attacked at Airport, Fans Demand Better Protection from SM
On May 8, aespa’s Ningning drew fresh concern from fans following a disturbing incident at the airport. According to multiple fan accounts and viral social media posts, aespa’s Ningning was reportedly attacked by a woman while departing for the SMTOWN concert in Mexico, prompting fan outrage over what they call irresponsible security handling.
As Ningning walked briskly with her hat pulled down low, a blonde-haired woman deliberately shoved past Ningning. Another woman, believed to be with the assailant, stood nearby and appeared to laugh at the incident. The woman who hit Ningning made no attempt to apologize and quickly walked away, while Ningning turned back in shock, clearly disturbed by the incident.
Video footage of the moment shows the woman deliberately approaching and bumping her entire body into Ningning, despite there being plenty of space around them. Ningning appeared visibly shaken, shaking her head in disbelief at the situation. Even more concerning to fans was the complete lack of intervention from security personnel at the scene.
The incident, which has since circulated widely across platforms like X (formerly Twitter), has sparked major outrage among fans. Many are criticizing SM Entertainment for failing to ensure the safety of their artists, especially in such vulnerable public settings.
“So the bodyguards are strict when fans try to give letters or gifts, but they just stand there when someone bumps into Ningning? What are they even getting paid for? Please prioritize the girls’ safety.”
The hashtag #ProtectNingning began trending shortly after the video surfaced, with fans demanding that SM Entertainment take immediate and concrete action to prevent similar incidents. Concerns have also been raised about the agency’s security team, who appeared to take no action during or after the encounter.
Fans are now urging SM Entertainment to review and strengthen its current security protocols to ensure the safety of all aespa members and other artists under the label.