aespa to Perform on NHK’s “Kōhaku Uta Gassen” as Scheduled Despite China-Japan Tensions

[마이데일리 = 이승길 기자] K-pop group aespa will appear on NHK’s “73rd Kōhaku Uta Gassen” as originally planned, according to the Japanese broadcaster.

On December 17, NHK held a press conference and confirmed that there would be “no change” regarding aespa’s appearance in the upcoming year-end show.

Concerns had arisen over aespa’s participation amid escalating tensions between China and Japan. Some voices in Japan suggested restricting the group’s appearance due to the inclusion of Chinese member Ningning, in response to China’s recent measures to limit Japanese content, often referred to as the “Korean Wave ban” targeting Japan.

Hiroo Yamana, Director of NHK’s Media Bureau, stated, “As of now, the program is proceeding with aespa scheduled to appear,” clarifying that there were no changes to the lineup.

Kōhaku Uta Gassen, held annually on December 31, is Japan’s most prestigious year-end music show.