BLACKPINK Lisa And aespa Ningning Face Backlash Over Controversial Behavior, Fans Call For Blacklisting

BLACKPINK’s Lisa and aespa’s Ningning are facing backlash after their appearance at a 2026 Met Gala after-party sparked controversy online.

The event took place on May 4, with several K-pop idols attending the Met Gala itself. Following the main event, Lisa, Ningning, and aespa’s Karina were seen together at multiple after-parties, drawing fans’ attention.

Lisa and Ningning were spotted dancing closely at one of the after-parties, which took place at The Box, a venue known for risqué performances like burlesque and drag shows.

The controversy began when images from the after-party showed more “exposure” than expected. Some online users claimed the event included a “striptease,” leading to criticism and trending posts. This sparked concern especially in mainland China, where celebrities must follow strict rules about their activities and event attendance.

Entertainers are prohibited from the following:…
4. Organize, participate, or promote illegal activities, such as those related to obscene and explicit content…
— China Association of Performing Arts

Fans quickly reacted, with some calling for Lisa and Ningning to face bans similar to those imposed on celebrities who previously attended Lisa’s Crazy Horse performance. Others argued that no nude performances were reported at the event hosted by Kate Moss and Teyana Taylor, making the calls for banning extreme and unnecessary.

As the situation unfolded, the debate over the after-party’s nature and the idols’ conduct continues to divide fans and netizens.