LNGSHOT, the rookie boy group launched under Jay Park’s label MORE VISION, is already finding itself at the centre of controversy just weeks into their debut.
The backlash stems from performances of their debut track ‘FaceTime’, which features partner choreography with female trainees from the same company. While mixed-gender dance routines are common across pop music globally, some fans — particularly within Chinese fan communities — took issue with the concept, arguing that the group was being used to promote other trainees rather than focusing solely on LNGSHOT’s own image.
Reports also claim that the controversy spilled over during a recent appearance on Inkigayo, as parts of LNGSHOT’s performance featuring the female dancers were met with audible disapproval, allegedly leading to a re-recording of the stage.
Moreover, according to entertainment outlet Koreaboo, the backlash escalated when protest trucks were reportedly sent to the company, displaying messages criticising the creative direction and management decisions surrounding the group’s promotions.
You 🫵have only 2️⃣ options:
— iso (@jaysdiors) February 2, 2026
1. if you wanna be a rapper 😎be close to whoever you want to🤝
2. if you want to make money 💸💰as an idol you better 😠😡 not cross the line ❌🙀 pic.twitter.com/Cv1w7iRJHz
260201 #LNGSHOT inkigayo pre-recording
— 路宝🍋 (@louisiapa) February 1, 2026
today during the ending, the pre-recorded female trainees came up on stage. there was a one-on-one pair dance and they even appeared in the final ending. the fans below went completely silent. honestly, it was legendary. when they filmed… pic.twitter.com/WIqtn9PwU0
As discussions continue across X and fan forums, reactions remain sharply divided — with many fans defending the group and calling the backlash an example of outdated parasocial expectations in K-pop.
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