aespa’s GMA Stage Draws Mixed Reactions, But Signals Strong U.S. Momentum
K-pop group aespa appeared on Good Morning America this week, performing their single "Rich Man" as part of a broader U.S. promotional push. The high-profile stage placed the quartet in front of millions of viewers, marking another step in their bid to expand beyond Asia.
The performance drew excitement, though some fans on social media remarked that it lacked the polish of aespa's large-scale concerts in Korea. Several pointed to stage lighting and camera work on the broadcast as factors that reduced its impact. A few fans described the live vocals and choreography as constrained by the morning show's format.
Supporters countered that appearing on a program like GMA was itself an achievement. They noted the difficulties of live morning broadcasts, where rehearsal time is short and technical conditions are not always ideal, and argued that aespa managed those hurdles capably.
Music critics echoed that view, suggesting the significance of the booking outweighed the criticisms. "Even if the stage wasn't flawless, it puts aespa on the radar of casual U.S. viewers who may be discovering them for the first time," one Seoul-based analyst said.
The group is scheduled for more U.S. concerts and media stops in the coming weeks. Commentators have pointed out that morning shows rarely feature K-pop artists, making the slot noteworthy. How aespa follows up with stronger live stages will determine whether the appearance becomes a stepping stone toward lasting recognition in the American market.
