“This gonna hit different”- Fans react as NewJeans is reported to give a freedom & liberation themed performance at KGMA amid ongoing HYBE controversy

NewJeans has been reported to perform a special stage at the 2024 Korea Grand Music Awards (KGMA) with the theme of “Liberation and Freedom.” A report on November 8, 2024, by Ilgan Sports, detailed the lineup and performances planned for the awards.

This news has generated significant anticipation among fans, given recent controversies surrounding their parent company, HYBE. They took to social media to share their excitement. One fan wrote on X,

"yeah this gonna hit different"

Several fans showcased their support for the group. One user added they "can't wait" for the performance.

"NewJeans, can't wait for your empowering performance, queens of freedom," a fan said.

"They will put a show on fire," another fan said.

"NEWJEANS BRINGIN' FREEDOM & LIBERATION VIBES TO THE STAGE, THIS PERFORMANCE'S GONNA HIT DIFFERENT,"a fan wrote.

Other fans discussed the theme of freedom and liberation, adding that the group was "perfect" for it.

"NewJeans’ style and energy are perfect for a theme centered on freedom and liberation." one fan said.

"Can’t wait to see what NewJeans brings to the stage! Freedom and liberation suits their vibe perfectly." added another fan.

"That sounds amazing! NewJeans always brings such fresh energy to their performances. A theme of freedom and liberation is super powerful! I can’t wait to see what they come up with." a fan wrote.

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NewJeans to perform at the Korea Grand Music Awards

The Korea Grand Music Awards (KGMA) is a newly introduced music award ceremony in South Korea, hosted by Ilgan Sports, one of the country’s leading entertainment and sports publications.

This awards show has generated excitement among K-pop fans worldwide by promising unique performances from popular K-pop artists. Set to take place over two days, November 16 and 17, 2024, the event will be held at Inspire Arena in Incheon and will feature 30 artists performing 100 songs under the theme "Birth of the Galaxy."

The KGMA will kick off with “Artist Day” on November 16, featuring special performances exclusive to the awards. Notably, NewJeans' Hanni will serve as the event's MC along with actor Nam Ji-hyun. Apart from the hosting stint, her group has been reported to have a special stage.

Further, SHINee's Taemin is reportedly preparing a performance that aligns with the event's galaxy theme. TVXQ, celebrating their 20th anniversary, are expected to captivate fans with their hits, according to Ilgan Sports.

ZEROBASEONE reportedly plans to have a show with a special wire performance, and (G)I-DLE will perform their song, Wife, from their recent album. Meanwhile, Lee Young-ji and D.O. from EXO are set to deliver a collaborative stage, after gaining attention for their recently released song, Small Girl.

Additionally, there will be special performances from artists in other genres. The publication reported that trot singer Young Tak will perform his hit, Super Super with an LED performance.

"Song Day" on November 17 will reportedly have Aespa’s Winter and Nam Ji-hyun taking on the MC duties. The lineup includes Aespa, ATEEZ, NiziU, DAY6, RIIZE, and TREASURE, among other artists.

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KGMA aims to celebrate achievements in K-pop, trot, band, and solo categories over the past year. The show’s executive director, Han Dong-chul, shared in the same report, that “Artist Day” plans to bring unique joy and inspiration to artists and fans.