Kim Dong Hyun is facing backlash after making a controversial comment to aespa’s Ningning during a recent broadcast.
On the July 5 episode of tvN’s popular variety show Amazing Saturday, aespa appeared as special guests.
While the atmosphere was light and fun, one moment between Kim Dong Hyun and Ningning drew sharp reactions from both the cast and viewers.
Host Boom brought up a past episode, asking Ningning, “Didn’t someone disrespect you the last time you were here? The person sitting next to you?”
Ningning didn’t hesitate to call it out. “Last time, he said I would probably be the worst one,” she said, referring to Kim Dong Hyun.
The studio immediately reacted with gasps and comments like, “That’s rude!”
Instead of apologizing, Kim Dong Hyun doubled down, saying, “But realistically, I thought there was a high chance you wouldn’t improve.”
Not backing down, Ningning fired back confidently, “I’m young, so I can learn faster.”
Kim Dong Hyun responded, “That kind of challenge doesn’t scare me at all. But okay, I’ll look forward to it.”
Then, SHINee’s Key, who is also a cast member, stepped in to defend Ningning, saying, “Isn’t it funny how an adult tells a foreign member that she’d probably be the worst at dictation? Hyung, that’s your fault too.”
Trying to explain himself, Kim Dong Hyun said, “Sure, I may be an adult outside, but in here, based on dictation skills, I’m still like a kid.”
Despite his lighthearted tone, many viewers felt his comment was insensitive, especially as it seemed to target Ningning’s foreign background.
Online, fans expressed their disappointment, calling for more respect toward idols who appear on variety shows, especially those navigating language and culture differences.
While some tried to defend the moment as playful banter, many are praising Ningning for standing her ground with grace and confidence.
Source: [1]
