Why are aespa fans upset with KATSEYE's response to haters?

KATSEYE, the global girl group under HYBE America, recently released their single Gnarly, which has sparked mixed reactions online. Despite the divided opinions, the buzz around the release has successfully drawn attention, with music fans eager to check out the hype. 

Performed by the six-member lineup — Daniela Avanzini, Lara Rajagopalan, Megan Skiendiel, Yoonchae Jeong, Sophia Laforteza, and Manon Bannerman — the track's release has also drawn significant criticism.

Following the song's debut, members Lara and Manon hosted a special broadcast. While Lara praised the track, saying how good it was, Manon interjected with, "Wait, are they not liking it?" Lara reassured viewers, saying it was okay and emphasized her pride in the song. 

Manon then added, "I understand it's different… if you get it, you get it." She then took the camera and repeated, "If you don't get it, get the f*ck away from us."

If aespa went on live whining about their hate trains over doing absolutely nothing they’ll get dragged and cancelled
These girls fueled everything and now play the victim card whining but nbgaf because they are Hybe artists
pic.twitter.com/F8kSoN8V4r

— 」 (@aeridactyll) April 30, 2025

KATSEYE face backlash

The remark stirred backlash online. Many netizens argued that listeners have the right to dislike a song without being insulted, and some criticized Manon's attitude, saying she needed media training.

In response, Manon posted a screenshot on Weverse showing a Google search for "media training courses," seemingly poking fun at the criticism.

💌 #MANON 300425

🧸: 📷x1
🧸: vibes#KATSEYE @katseyeworld pic.twitter.com/upY2pF1ZEZ

— KATSEYE Weverse (@weversekatseye) April 30, 2025

Fans react

While the group's fans — known as EYEKONS — found the moment iconic, fans of aespa (called MYs) began criticizing the group, calling Manon "arrogant." EYEKONS quickly defended KATSEYE, pointing out that the group isn't a K-pop act in the traditional sense, but rather one that used the K-pop system to debut. They also argued that K-pop fans aren't used to seeing idols respond boldly to criticism.  

I dont understand why people are applying their Kpop Degree with Katseye. Like why? https://t.co/ILT7pveTu3 pic.twitter.com/ogWZ0CFIq8

— Jaeinieee03 (@Javz031) April 30, 2025

Some EYEKONS even reminded MYs that they had once pushed their own idol, aespa's Karina, to apologize publicly for dating — and questioned why they were now attempting to shame others.

I'm LIVING for the fact y'all are HEATED that she's not sitting back letting you bully her to hell and back,beyond imagination. Nothing gets kpoppies more mad than a woman standing up against their bullying https://t.co/Mj56Bz4VnX

— 🫧 (@yunjeanpink) May 1, 2025

Others claimed that MYs simply wanted to keep "bullying" KATSEYE, suggesting the anger stemmed from accusations that Gnarly plagiarized elements of aespa’s song Drama.

“their last hope…” girl they dont even have to hope. mys are naturally born to be bullies though https://t.co/ovF1YqO9Gs pic.twitter.com/W4FUCnx1Et

— 🫃🏻 (@miffymtchaa) May 1, 2025

This is katseye page, manon is talking to her fans, why tf are stans of other ggs here? Are your faves that boring lol https://t.co/erzyPWH9qn

— Kia¹²⁷ (@127sValentine) May 1, 2025

More about KATSEYE

The group first came together in 2023 through The Dream Academy, a global audition program launched by HYBE and Geffen Records. Their 2024 debut EP, SIS (Soft Is Strong), introduced fans to a polished mix of sleek pop and viral hooks, with standout tracks like Debut and the sweet, addictive Touch.  

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