Aespa Faces Criticism For Giving Fans “Low Budget” Gifts, Say “They Earn So Much…”
Fans also compared aespa's gifts to those from other groups.
K-pop idols often shower their fans with love, surprises, and thoughtful gifts, and fans absolutely adore these sweet gestures. However, Aespa’s recent gifts for MYs have created a massive stir online. Many fans are openly sharing their disappointment and frustration. So, what exactly turned this kind move into a heated discussion? Read on to find out!
Fans Express Disappointment Over Aespa’s “Cheap” Gifts
Recently, Aespa handed out food gift bags to fans who showed up early for the pre-recording of the 2025 MBC Gayo Daejejeon. Since the show airs live on New Year’s Eve and the group will not be present due to an overseas schedule, they planned to thank MYs with a gift. Each bag included sambap, which is a homemade Korean meal with rice, various side dishes, fresh leafy vegetables, bottled water and hot packs.
However, things took a surprising turn when photos of many untouched bags ending up in trash cans surfaced on the internet. It was kind of like a protest as the fans showed their disappointment with the gift bag.
블랙핑크 르세라핌 뉴진스 역조공 https://t.co/FhOAvzP71U pic.twitter.com/61s3phwK15
— 니엄마 (@o4onhn) December 28, 2025
While ssambap is an everyday meal in Korea, many felt it was too basic. Not just this, they also compared aespa’s gifts to those from other groups. They said other idols often give packages with fried chicken, desserts, snacks, photocards, stickers, or other items and make fans feel special. One user wrote, “Whattttt evennnn? such a simple meal for your fansss? This is so not done. We give so much of our time yet u guys don’t do anything for us.” Another user wrote, “Ummmmmm, I thought they’d give something nice but ughhhhh. What to say!”
Also Read: Video Of K-pop Idols “Accidentally” Dropping Cake On Floor Goes Viral For THIS Reason!
Hence, fans expressed their disappointment, as they expected a lot from a popular group like Aespa. On the other hand, many MYs came in defence and called it thoughtful and caring, especially in winter.
First Published: December 29, 2025 12:35 PM
