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Netizens claim aespa’s stage at MAMA 2021 is no different from a weekly music show performance

dhanDecember 12, 2021Last Updated: December 12, 2021

2 minutes read

aespa’s stage at MAMA 2021 does not meet the expectations of many netizens.

The 2021 Mnet Asian Music Awards – MAMA 2021 finally took place on December 11 with the attendance of famous Kpop artists. The viewers were not only looking forward to the awards’ winners but also the eye-catching performances.

One of the highlights of MAMA 2021 is “monster rookie” aespa – one of the most successful girl groups of 2021. Fans had high expectations for the group’s performance at this major award show, but aespa’s stage ends up getting mixed reactions.

aespa’s stage at MAMA 2021

aespa performed 2 songs Next Level and Savage. In general, 4 members completed their stage well with high-quality high notes of NingNing and Winter, catchy rap verses by Karina and Giselle, together with synchronized, professional dancing. aespa‘s visuals and stage presence are also outstanding.

Despite being a rookie, aespa delivered a professional performance

Maknae NingNing not only showcases her stable vocal, but also a confident stage presence

The beauty of "AI goddess" Karina does not disappoint

Winter stuns with her long hair and diverse expressions

Although aespa members did well, their stage still received mixed reactions from netizens. The reason is because the stage set up and design was too empty and sketchy, having no props or even backup dancers. Besides, fans are unhappy with the questionable outfits of 4 members.

*aespa members were dancing alone in the middle of the large stage. The company could have added backup dancers to make it look less empty.*

*The stage set up is too sketchy and reminds fans of a music show stage*

Winter's top looks nice, but fans are confused with her layered ruffle pants... — *Winter’s top looks nice, but fans are confused with her layered ruffle pants…*

The "excess" fabric in Giselle's dress... — *The “excess” fabric in Giselle’s dress…*

Familiar characters in aespa‘s MVs also appeared on stage. Black Mamba, Naevis and 4 avatars of the members seem to be the only things that make aespa’s stage different from other groups.

Black Mamba's majestic presence is highly prepared

*Navis appeared in only few short seconds*

*Their 4 ae characters appeared and performed with the SM’s girlgroup*

aespa showed off their professional beauty at MAMA 2021, but the stage prepared for them was super sticky and there were also many other petty glitches. aespa’s presence was somehow surpassed by the impressiveness of their co-stars, Black Mamba, Navis and ae.

Some comments from netizens:

I really like aespa but why is this? The stylist of the group, especially Karina’s, should be fired. Where’s the intro with the dance break? Why is there only2 songs? And I don’t see any backup dancers. aespa deserves more than that.
aespa deserves more from SM. How dare they leave the stage empty when it’s a big awards ceremony?
Why is aespa’s stage so empty? This is not Music Bank.
They could have done better.
What kind of outfit is that? It’s so ridiculous
The outfit could have been prettier but the stylist added a few more “details”. It’s so weird.