Over 70,000 sign petition to cancel K-pop group's performance in Japan over Chinese member

The petition argued that Aespa’s appearance could damage Japan’s image and offend those affected by historical tragedies. - Photo: SM ENTERTAINMENT

SEOUL: More than 70,000 people have signed a petition calling for the cancellation of K-pop girl group Aespa's performance at Japan’s most prominent year-end music show over the inclusion of its Chinese member, Ningning.

The petition, posted Monday (Nov 17), specifically targeted the NHK Red and White Singing Contest, one of Japan’s most-watched year-end programs. It argued that Aespa’s appearance could damage Japan’s image and offend those affected by historical tragedies.