JYP Entertainment is facing mixed reactions after a rumored trainee appeared in NMIXX’s latest music video for “Heavy Serenade.”

Shortly after the MV’s release, Korean netizens began circulating screenshots of a young woman featured prominently throughout the video. According to posts shared on Korean community forum theqoo, the individual is rumored to be trainee Kim Nabin, reportedly born in 2008.

JYP Entertainment has not officially confirmed her identity or trainee status.

Despite the lack of confirmation, the alleged trainee quickly gained attention for her visuals, with many online users comparing her appearance to established female idols and describing her as having “pure bunny vibes.”

However, the conversation soon shifted into a debate about whether the company handled the cameo appropriately.

Some viewers argued that the issue was not the trainee herself, but rather the way she was integrated into the music video. Critics claimed the filming style made her appear too similar to an actual NMIXX member instead of a simple cameo or supporting character.

Several netizens expressed concern that casual viewers unfamiliar with the group could mistake her for a newly added member.

  • People who don’t know them would think she’s a member.
  • NMIXX is at such an important point right now, so what is this?
  • Fans are probably annoyed because it feels like rookie promotion inside another group’s comeback.

Others pointed out that entertainment companies often introduce trainees or pre-debut idols through opposite-sex idol MVs or clearly separated supporting roles instead of blending them directly into an active group’s lineup visuals.

Some comments defended the appearance, focusing mainly on the trainee’s visuals and potential star quality.

  • She’s so pretty.
  • She looks like LOONA’s Heejin.
  • She’s cute, like a baby.

Still, many fans argued the controversy reflects a broader frustration with companies using senior artists’ promotions to generate attention for future groups.

The discussion continues to spread across Korean online communities, with fans divided over whether the appearance was unfair to NMIXX or simply a common industry marketing strategy.

As of now, neither JYP Entertainment nor NMIXX’s management has addressed the speculation publicly.

Sources: Theqoo