Rookie global girl group KATSEYE found themselves at the center of heated debate following their debut performance at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. Instead of their music or stage production, it was controversy that dominated online discussions.
During their 45-minute set on the Sahara Stage, a particular moment quickly went viral.
Member Lara Raj was seen performing a choreography move where she licked the face of Megan Skiendiel. The move was originally part of a different pairing but was adjusted due to Manon Bannerman’s absence.
The reaction was immediate and intense. Online comments included:
- This is disgusting.
- They’re trying too hard.
- Megan’s expression makes it worse.
Clips of the performance spread rapidly, with some posts gaining thousands of likes.
Beyond that moment, additional criticism targeted: Twerking-heavy choreography, revealing outfits and close-contact dance moves. Some viewers even expressed concern about “possible wardrobe malfunctions” during the performance.
The performance also sparked criticism over live vocals. During the song “Gabriela,” member Daniela Avanzini faced backlash for pitch instability during the Spanish bridge section.
Netizens commented: “They’re still making the same mistakes even after performing this song many times.”
However, others defended the group, pointing out: Performing a full live Spanish section immediately after intense choreography is “extremely difficult physically.”
The controversy has drawn comparisons to LE SSERAFIM’s 2024 Coachella performance, which also faced criticism over live vocals during high-intensity choreography.
At the time, critics questioned HYBE’s training system, with comments like: “Does HYBE not prioritize vocal training?”
With similar concerns resurfacing, some are now questioning whether structural issues remain unresolved.
Despite the backlash, there were bright moments.
KATSEYE’s collaboration stage for “Golden” with HUNTR/X — from Netflix’s Kpop Demon Hunters — was praised as: “One of the highlights of Coachella weekend.”
Audience reactions at the venue were reportedly strong, suggesting a contrast between online criticism and live reception.
Offstage developments also drew attention. Manon Bannerman, who was absent from the performance, posted an Instagram story celebrating 6 million followers on the same day. Notably, she had recently removed “KATSEYE” from her bio, fueling speculation about a possible departure from the group.
KATSEYE’s Coachella debut was meant to be a breakthrough moment on a global stage.
Instead, it has become a turning point filled with mixed reactions — highlighting both their potential and the challenges they face under intense international scrutiny.
Sources: Daum | 스포츠경향
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