South Korea's first lady Kim Keon Hee is facing renewed backlash online over claims that she turned down an offer for BLACKPINK and Lady Gaga to perform together at Carnegie Hall in New York City.
In a recent live broadcast on February 14 KST, political commentator Park Seon Won discussed the allegations with National Assemblyman Kim Min Suk of the Democratic Party, shedding light on the rejection that occurred during President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment trial in the U.S.
Park revealed that the U.S. offer came through then-First Lady Jill Biden, who hoped for a joint performance by BLACKPINK and Lady Gaga at Carnegie Hall to mark the Korea-U.S. Summit in April 2023. However, the National Security Office intervened, claiming that Kim Keon Hee objected to having young women around her.
The rejection sparked outrage, leading to the dismissal of top officials, with President Yoon Seok Yeol expressing anger over the missed opportunity. Reports indicate that the lack of response from South Korea resulted in the performance never materializing.
As the controversy gains traction online, netizens are criticizing Kim Keon Hee's decision with comments like, "Grandma, you ruined everything ughhh," and "Lady, can you please act your age." The public sentiment reflects disappointment and frustration over the missed chance for a symbolically significant performance at the historic venue.
The incident has reignited discussions about the intersection of politics and entertainment, prompting reactions from concerned citizens and fans alike.