
KickFlip Issues Apology: Addressing Fan Expectations and Criticism
Recently, rookie boy group KickFlip found themselves in the spotlight for not adequately performing TWICE’s hit song “Cheer Up.”In a response to the backlash from fans, the group humbly apologized to both their senior artists and their supporters, the ONCEs.
Live Broadcast Highlights and Incident
On January 31, JYP Entertainment’s KickFlip engaged with fans during a 41-minute live broadcast on YouTube. Though intended to create joyful moments with their audience, one incident shifted the atmosphere negatively for many viewers.
Missteps During the Performance
Towards the conclusion of the livestream, the members of KickFlip reflected on a recent appearance on Idol Radio where they participated in a game reminiscent of “Guess the Song.”One of the tracks they were tasked with guessing was “Cheer Up, ”the iconic song by TWICE.
While the group successfully identified the song, their execution of the accompanying dance move fell short of fans’ expectations. As a junior group under the same label as TWICE, many ONCEs expressed disappointment, feeling that KickFlip should have demonstrated a better understanding of the choreography.
I feel so bad for them😭 The ONCEs who participated in the bullying were nasty for this. They didn’t even do that bad.pic.twitter.com/E2wrOjnV3N https://t.co/w2uEzQcRhM
— Pisos13🍀 (@pisos13nswer) January 31, 2025
Apology and Its Reception
In their apology video, KickFlip’s members expressed regret for not knowing the dance more thoroughly, explaining they were nervous and unprepared due to the randomness of song selection, as reported by theqoo.
The subsequent circulation of their apology on social media sparked mixed reactions. Many viewers outside the KickFlip and TWICE fanbase questioned the necessity of such an apology.
KickFlip apologized for “not knowing” the choreo of cheer up. Well I hope y’all are happy 🫠 pic.twitter.com/nG5mOO9c5v
— dotty said 🛹 (@kfpmixx_) January 31, 2025
Generational Context and Fandom Reactions
Considering “Cheer Up”was released in 2016—when the majority of KickFlip’s members were born in 2006—it’s understandable that their familiarity with the song is limited. Their fans pointed out this age gap, asserting that it’s unreasonable to expect a comprehensive understanding of a song from a decade ago.
Many ONCEs joined the discussion, emphasizing that the essence of the songs is to be enjoyed rather than perfectly performed.
I don’t know what people are saying, but no need to apologize for dancing to a Twice song; have fun with it. As a ONCE, I’m happier that people are enjoying Twice than being some kind of Twice expert is my take.
— 🇺🇲 Twice | Soloist Yeji🖤Rick (@RickyBetsOnItzy) January 31, 2025
Follow-up Performance and Continued Critique
In a proactive move, KickFlip later released a new video showcasing their synchronized dance to “Cheer Up, ”which they hoped would satisfy critics.
They redid the choreo. I hope this is good enough now pic.twitter.com/hCXgclvMpt
— dotty said 🛹 (@kfpmixx_) January 31, 2025
Fan Outcry Against Harassment
Despite the group’s efforts, many KickFlip fans felt a surge of frustration toward the ONCEs who criticized them. Furthermore, there was considerable backlash against JYP Entertainment for requiring the boys to issue an apology at all.
With TWICE members pushing their 30s I was expecting their fandom to be more mature and cool about it… not bullying 17yo boys on the internet until they apologize. This is so unnecessary and embarrassing I hope you never forget this sht. My poor KickFlip deserve better! https://t.co/X9wxRpUShh
— mariਭ੭ (@straykidns) January 31, 2025
And a BIG fuck to JYP for even making them apologize. These companies always give in when it comes to Knetz.
— dotty said 🛹 (@kfpmixx_) January 31, 2025
For further insights, you can check the original report from Kpopstarz.
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