K-pop girl group aespa draws criticism for vocal and camerawork issues during GMA performance

K-pop group aespa drew criticism for their performance on Good Morning America, where they showcased their single “Rich Man” during a live broadcast. The stage, seen by millions of viewers, attracted mixed responses from fans and observers online.

Several social media users remarked that the appearance lacked the refinement of aespa’s large-scale Korean concerts.

Complaints centred on the broadcast’s lighting and camera work, with some suggesting these technical factors limited the impact of the performance. A few also noted that the live vocals and choreography appeared constrained by the format of the show.

Other fans defended the group, stressing the challenges of morning television appearances, where rehearsal opportunities are brief and production conditions can be unpredictable.

They argued that aespa handled those hurdles with professionalism and highlighted that performing live on a major US morning programme remains a notable accomplishment.

Some users also compared aespa's act to that of other K-pop groups, including BTS and LE SSERAFIM, as an example of a high-quality performance complete with live vocals and immaculate choreography.

Despite the debate, the performance placed aespa in front of an expanded international audience with many now awaiting the group's upcoming appearances to see how they follow up on this moment.