The 2025 Asia Artist Awards (AAA) may have dazzled fans with a star-studded lineup and impressive production on December 6 in Kaohsiung, but the event has since found itself at the center of controversy. Accusations have surfaced online that the show’s 360-degree stage was simply a reused setup from TWICE’s concert held at the same venue just two weeks prior.
TWICE performed at the World Games Main Stadium on November 22–23, utilizing a four-sided stage configuration. Following AAA’s use of a similar design, netizens began speculating that the award show merely “borrowed” the existing stage. The claim quickly went viral, sparking heated debates among K-pop fans on both sides.
In response, Moon Wan-sik, executive producer of AAA, took to Threads to refute the rumors. He shared photos documenting the staging process and firmly denied the allegations:
“The AAA stage was designed and constructed by our own team. We did not share or reuse any stage with previous concerts. These false claims will be dealt with through legal channels.”
Despite the denial, criticism surrounding the 360-degree stage hasn’t stopped. While AAA promoted the setup as allowing unobstructed views from all angles, many fans in the FN sections expressed disappointment, saying they could only see performers’ backs for “90% of the show.”
Comments from frustrated attendees include:
- “If artists only face one direction, don’t call it a 360-degree stage.”
- “I paid to see my idols, not their backs—this was heartbreaking.”
Photos from the event circulating online show that while the stage was technically surrounded by audience seating, the execution fell short of expectations. As a result, social media has been flooded with mixed reviews, with fans debating whether the so-called “zero dead angle” design truly delivered on its promise.
Meanwhile, AAA organizers are considering legal action against those spreading what they claim are baseless accusations, as the incident continues to dominate discussions following the ceremony.
Whether this controversy will impact future large-scale K-pop events remains to be seen—but for now, AAA 2025 is facing some major post-show fallout.
You must be logged in to post a comment.