unexpected present from aespa
aespa Faces Criticism for ‘Unexpected Present’ at 2024 MBC Gayo Daejaejeon
The tradition of providing “reverse gifts” at K-pop events has become increasingly competitive among idols. Fans often compare the generosity and creativity of these offerings, with expectations particularly high for seasoned artists. While rookie groups might offer simpler gifts due to budget constraints, established idols are typically expected to provide more substantial tokens of appreciation.
aespa’s Approach at the Event
At the 2024 MBC Gayo Daejeon, aespa faced criticism for what some fans perceived as an “unexpected present.” The group mentioned having a “present” for their fans but did not distribute any physical gifts. Instead, they walked onto the stage extension to greet their fans before returning backstage, making this brief interaction their only gesture of appreciation.
Knetz Reactions to unexpected present from aespa
This approach sparked dissatisfaction among some Korean netizens, who expressed their frustration online. A notable tweet criticizing aespa’s lack of tangible gifts reached 5.8 million views, highlighting the widespread disappointment among fans. Many noted that they often wait for long hours in challenging conditions to support their favorite idols and felt that a more tangible token of appreciation would have been meaningful.
Translated Comments:
@moneehaf
“Yesterday, the delay for aespa’s Gayo Daejaejeon pre-recording was three hours. I thought they would at least send over 700 kimbap rolls, but I was really upset. After the recording, they said there was a gift, but it turned out to be just walking to the stage extension to greet us… I really didn’t expect that.”
@famusdz
“Do fans buy official merchandise, light sticks, and albums just to get a roll of kimbap? It’s all out of love. Even if it’s not as much as the love they give, expecting a little sincerity isn’t too much to ask. Reverse support isn’t cheap, but fans don’t spend small amounts either.”
@hulo137
“It’s amazing that they think just coming out to the stage extension to greet us counts as a ‘gift.’ It seems like most idols think that way. Fans pay for everything and essentially fund their livelihoods, yet they consider doing something for fans as giving a gift.”
@im_unhappy_0_0
“Not only did we not get a single roll of kimbap, but when fans said they hadn’t eaten, we were told we should have brought our own kimbap… While other groups get reverse gifts, we just stand there doing nothing. It’s frustrating that aespa fans are treated poorly while supporting a big company group. There should be limits to defending them.”
@wmenrt
“For idols, this is their job, but for fans, it’s not a job. They receive unconditional love and huge sums of money that they wouldn’t normally see at their age. How can fans not feel powerless? Beyond money issues, if they’re grateful, they should know how to give back and reciprocate. Honestly, lately it feels like aespa members they’re just having fun among themselves.”
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