ENHYPEN’s Live Vocals Without Heeseung Spark Controversy, Member Issues Apology
ENHYPEN is facing backlash after their recent performance at the 2026 Asia Star Entertainer Awards on May 16. The group, now performing without former member Heeseung (who goes by EVAN), took home major daesangs including “Artist Of The Year” and “Album Of The Year.”
ENHYPEN performed four songs during the event, treating fans to a mini-concert. However, their rendition of “Helium” sparked controversy online. Many fans criticized the live vocals, pointing out autotune use and vocal mistakes.
See? What did I say before?
Those obviously autotuned high notes during the 4th tour and people still denied it. They bragged way too early now the backlash is hitting them, huh?
This is their real skill level.
— OP
Some fans expressed shock that the group sounded worse than previous stages.
I’m actually shocked at how they manage to sound even worse than the previous stages
— ℛ
Others mocked the performance, noting the leader had to apologize for the mistakes.
imagine being such a bad singer your leader has to go apologize on weverse the same day for ruining the song
—
Following the event, ENHYPEN’s leader Jungwon admitted to messing up a part and promised to practice harder.
Ah seriously, the helium live totally flopped lol
I’ll do better
Sumimasen (Japanese for sorry)
Jungwon is so humble.
He didn’t mess up.. it was literally just a tiny one-note slip in the last part of the phrase when he transitioned into another vocal reg.. yet he acknowledged it!
They sang with live vocals.. no lip sync at all and there are no perfect vocal…
— Lovely
Fans also debated the changes in vocal distribution and style since Heeseung’s departure. Some defended the group’s growth and maturity despite the differences.
Sunoo’s vocal technique and overall technical approach in this HN are different from those of the original version.. but the note itself remained the same. He hit the same pitch as the og version.
So no matter how much comparison people make, it will never sound exactly the same…
— Lovely
His fans hating on the newly redistributed parts and who sings what. It doesn’t matter who sings those parts, they will always spread hate, but don’t worry ENGENEs..
Only ENHYPEN can sing those songs from now on and they will always sit with their bitterness from the decision he…
— ???????????????? ♡ ???????????????????? . ݁₊˚ ⊹
There was no dance break or anything, but it’s now one of my favorite Enhypen stages. It was vocally packed and exuded an aura of growth, confidence, and maturity. . I really enjoyed today’s Enhypen ASEA award performance.
— heliocentrism
Despite the mixed reactions, ENHYPEN’s performance at the 2026 Asia Star Entertainer Awards marked a notable moment for the group’s new lineup, two months after Heeseung’s departure. Fans continue to watch closely as they adapt and grow.