Korean netizens recently directed attention to the noticeable popularity difference between aespa's Karina and the rest of the members - Winter, Giselle, and Ningning.

Popularity differences among members are inevitable in K-pop groups, and this has been subtly noticeable within aespa. However, the group's recent solo releases have brought these differences into sharper focus.

While Karina's solo song quickly climbed the charts, landing in the top rankings, the solo efforts from the other aespa members failed to reach similar heights.

After the group's solo track releases, Korean netizens gathered on a popular online forum to discuss the noticeable popularity gap between the members. Some argued that the ranking disparity was simply due to Karina’s song being more appealing, while others believed the difference reflected the varying levels of popularity among the members.

Korean netizens commented:

"'UP' is the best in my opinion, but it’s just that Karina’s popularity is overwhelmingly higher; the other members are all popular and pretty similar too, lol."

"All of aespa’s solo songs this time are really good, and they sound even better with the stage production and vibe. The popularity difference, whatever, I’m just super satisfied that SM gave them concert songs. It’s annoying how non-fans are causing drama, and people are getting dragged into their bait."

"But it’s really harsh how they rank them like that... It feels like aespa is practically a two-member group now."

"It’s not about popularity differences within aespa; it’s the gap between your favorite idol and aespa’s popularity, lol. Where’s the drama? You’re so obvious. Karina, you’re driving people crazy, sigh."

"But honestly, only Karina’s song is really good..."

"Isn't it obvious to everyone that aespa is basically a two-member group with Karina and Winter?"

"But it was always apparent that aespa's popularity was Karina, Winter, and then Ningning, Giselle."

"I think Karina was given the best song, to be honest. I definitely think SM gave Karina the song that would be popular."

What are your thoughts on this matter? Let us know in the comments below!

SEE ALSO: Check out a preview of all the songs from aespa's 'Whiplash' through highlight medley teaser