On October 8, it was revealed that TWICE will perform at the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show later this month. While this marks another milestone in TWICE’s expanding international career, the news has unexpectedly reignited a familiar debate one tied to BLACKPINK’s Lisa.
In 2024, Lisa became the first K-pop solo artist to perform at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, an appearance that generated huge global buzz but also drew harsh criticism. Some netizens accused her of being “too provocative,” while others speculated that her invitation was linked to her rumored relationship with a luxury brand CEO.
Now, just one year later, TWICE has been invited to the same stage. But instead of receiving similar scrutiny, the group’s participation has largely been met with praise a contrast that hasn’t gone unnoticed by fans.
Many have pointed out what they see as a double standard. On online forums like Theqoo and Nate Pann, comments such as “When Lisa did it, people said she was damaging K-pop’s image. Now TWICE does it and everyone’s proud why the sudden change?” have gained traction.
Others argued that Lisa often becomes the first to take risks and the first to be criticized for them only for similar actions to later be accepted when done by others.
“Lisa opens doors for K-pop idols, but she’s always the one who gets hate first. Once she normalizes it, others walk through without backlash,” one user wrote.
This incident highlights a recurring trend in K-pop’s global expansion. When idols like Lisa break new ground attending Western fashion events, performing on global stages, or collaborating with luxury brands they often face a wave of backlash before public perception shifts.
TWICE’s participation this year shows how much the perception of K-pop’s presence in Western pop culture has evolved. What was once labeled “too bold” is now seen as a symbol of global influence.
Despite the controversy, anticipation for TWICE’s upcoming Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show stage remains sky-high. The 2025 lineup, confirmed by Billboard, features a diverse roster including Karol G and TWICE, reflecting the show’s ongoing shift toward inclusivity and global representation.
Fans have been quick to defend TWICE, emphasizing that both groups are paving the way for K-pop’s international recognition.
“Lisa broke barriers. TWICE continuing that path isn’t competition it’s progress,” one fan commented on social media.
As TWICE prepares for their performance, the controversy surrounding their announcement underscores a broader conversation not about rivalry, but about how K-pop women navigate global stages.
Lisa may have faced backlash, but her influence clearly reshaped the landscape, making it easier for groups like TWICE to be celebrated rather than condemned.
Sources: Billboard,Koreaboo
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