“Big 3” Girl Group’s Recent Performance Sparks Massive Criticism And Debate

SM Entertainment’s girl group Hearts2Hearts has once again stood at the receiving end of criticism following their latest performance at the TMELive Awards ceremony.

| SM Entertainment

While their cover of Girls’ Generation’s iconic hit “Gee” drew attention, reactions were highly divided, with many fans expressing disappointment.

Hearts2Hearts performs Gee by Girls Generation on stage together.pic.twitter.com/y5wsOXtK3b

— About Music (@AboutMusicYT) August 22, 2025

Viral posts argue that the performance highlighted a long-standing issue: a perceived lack of star power. Since their debut earlier this February, Hearts2Hearts has faced scrutiny for being a young group that struggles to stand out among the industry’s top acts.

They really got no star power https://t.co/wg3vKiayyE

— problematic reveluv (@jaehyuntopme) August 23, 2025

Despite gaining fans with songs like “The Chase” and “Style,” some international fans have gone so far as to label the group as “nugu” — a Korean term meaning “who,” used for groups that are considered relatively unknown or lacking public recognition.

this group is so nugu https://t.co/3Be3h8ze2o

— blair 🎀 (@povsunooo) August 22, 2025

At the same time, some have defended the group, pointing out that the members are talented and skilled, qualities that should be more important than instant fame. Many fans also criticized the ongoing negativity, saying that Hearts2Hearts is receiving undue backlash simply for doing their job.

why does hearts2hearts always get hate for… doing their job well? 😭 https://t.co/ZStHYm3tVz

— chips (@aecendio) August 24, 2025

sm girlgroups always get hate during their rookie days, they'll be big, trust me https://t.co/E2FsH3NcEK

— rie (@riechocolatte) August 24, 2025

they are the only group i’ve seen that always get hate for doing their job 😭 it’s crazy https://t.co/ZQJY0p3ti4

— sara (@irenetism) August 24, 2025

Others noted that performing a playful and cutesy song like “Gee” might naturally limit the type of charisma or “star presence” a group can show.

what kind of star power are y'all expecting from a Gee cover😭😭😭 https://t.co/unZPNa7LPk

— 𓏲𝄢 (@baecix) August 23, 2025

The debate over Hearts2Hearts’ performances underscores a broader conversation in K-Pop: whether talent alone is enough for recognition or if instant star power is a necessary ingredient for success. For now, the girl group continues to build their fanbase and develop their presence, navigating through both praise and criticism along the way.