aespa’s Ningning to miss NHK 'Kohaku Uta Gassen' after influenza diagnosis

aespa member Ningning will be absent from Japan’s NHK 'Kohaku Uta Gassen' after being diagnosed with influenza.

On December 29 KST, SM Entertainment announced via aespa’s official Japanese website, “Ningning was diagnosed with influenza following a hospital examination and has been advised by medical professionals to get sufficient rest and focus on recovery.” As a result, only Karina, Giselle, and Winter will participate in this year’s Kohaku Uta Gassen.

SM added, “After discussions with NHK, it was decided that Ningning would not take part,” and continued, “We sincerely apologize for the sudden news and ask for your kind understanding.”

Ningning’s absence has drawn additional attention as it coincides with renewed controversy surrounding a past social media post. The post referenced by SM was a lighting photograph Ningning uploaded to her social media in 2022, which some claimed resembled a mushroom cloud formed after an atomic bomb explosion.

Following recent remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggesting possible intervention in a Taiwan contingency, tensions between China and Japan have escalated, leading to the resurfacing of the post. An online petition calling for the cancellation of Ningning’s appearance on 'Kohaku Uta Gassen' was also filed.

In response, SM stated, “The post had no specific purpose or intention, but we take seriously the concerns it has raised,” adding that the company will exercise greater caution moving forward.

Meanwhile, NHK 'Kohaku Uta Gassen' is Japan’s flagship year-end music program, broadcast live on December 31 every year.