HYBE’s upcoming girl group PRELUDE is already facing intense scrutiny—even before their official debut.
The company has been gradually introducing the group, with three members revealed so far. The final lineup is expected to be determined through the program World Scout: The Final Piece, which is scheduled to conclude in May.
Ahead of the final decision, the partially revealed members made a public appearance at the Billboard Women in Music 2026 ceremony, a major industry event that celebrates influential female artists.
However, once photos from the event circulated online, they quickly became a hot topic—and not in a positive way. Many netizens reacted critically, questioning the group’s presence at such a high-profile event before even making their official debut.
Some commenters pointed out what they perceived as a lack of visual cohesion among the members, while others expressed confusion over why an unfinished group was being promoted on such a large stage. The situation also led to criticism directed at HYBE, with accusations that the agency was pushing the group too aggressively ahead of their debut.
As discussions continue online, PRELUDE’s early exposure has sparked a wider debate about pre-debut promotions and whether such strategies help or hurt new artists in the long run.
Sources: Koreaboo
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