SBS Korea's latest girl group survival show, "Universe Ticket," took a gripping start, unveiling the competitive spirits of 82 female participants vying for a spot in an 8-member global girl group.

However, it was singer-actress Kim Sejeong's remarks that stole the spotlight in the pilot episode.

Sejeong Criticizes 'Universe Ticket' Participants Stage Presence vs. Skills in Girl Groups

During a 1-on-1 battle between former girl group members Kwon Chaewon and Jeon Jieun, Kim Sejeong voiced her disappointment.

"I don't think a girl group member's skills are that important, but your lacking skills shouldn't be apparent on the stage."

(Photo : Instiz)

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Her critique, albeit delivered in a calm tone, resonated deeply across social media platforms.

The episode showcased Sejeong's belief that even if a member lacks certain skills, they should meticulously hide these shortcomings on stage. She expressed:

"If I dare myself to say this... I don't think a girl group member's skills are that important. However, your lacking skills shouldn't be apparent on the stage.

You can't let people see them. To hide them, you work hard with your blood, sweat and tears, and give a perfect performance. I think that's what an idol singer does. Even if you are lacking, you should complete the performance.

But the two of you... one person is a current girl group member and the other is a girl group member..."

(Photo : Instiz)

(Photo : Instiz)

Kim Sejeong paused, gathering her thoughts, hesitating before continuing:

"Those titles seem very meaningless. Even if you are a member who sings for only 20 seconds, you really should hide your lacking skills in those 20 seconds.

I don't think it became apparent because you sang for 82 seconds. Even if the two of you had 20 seconds, the end result would have been similar. I am quite disappointed. I think the two of you should practice a lot."

Her comments stirred controversy, with some perceiving them as harsh while others lauded the constructive criticism directed at the contestants.

Sejeong's Realistic Advice Sparks Online Debate on Idol Skills, Stage Presence

Online communities buzzed with varied reactions, with some netizens acknowledging Sejeong's experience and applauding her candor.

Comments ranged from supporting Sejeong's realistic advice to expressing agreement with the notion that certain skills should not be revealed, even if they are not exceptional.

(Photo : Instiz)

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These are some comments from various social media platforms:

• "She must've talked from experience."
• "It's really true... You shouldn't be caught showing bad skills while on stage."
• "Sejeong only spoke the facts."
• "Rather than harshly, I think she spoke realistically. To be honest, it's true that people tend to pay less attention to idols' skills, and they're not too harsh on even the basics."
• "Sejeong is really good at judging."
• "She's smart. As expected, she's even cooler because she's a talented person. I don't think she was being too harsh."
• "Wow, I totally agree.. I don't think idols need to have amazing skills, but at least I think skills that are frowned upon should not be revealed."
• "Sejeong has also participated in survival and was in a girl group, so she is someone who has experienced enough, so this seems like sincere advice."
• "Wow, this is really realistic advice...."
• "Sejeong, let's start an agency later."

The episode's discourse also highlighted fellow judge Yoonha's disappointment at the contestants' performances, but it was Sejeong's remarks that ignited a fervent debate on the expectations of idol skills and stage presence.

K-Netz' diverse reactions included admiration for Sejeong's judgment, acknowledgment of her experience in survival shows and girl groups, and even playful suggestions of starting an agency together.

As the show progresses, Sejeong's comments and their impact on the participants' performances remain a subject of keen interest, raising questions about the expectations and demands placed on aspiring idol singers in the competitive K-pop landscape.

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KpopStarz own this article.
Madison Cullen wrote this.