A new fancam from TWICEit’s the world tour underway This is for sparked a heated debate among K-pop fans, as Nayeon, the group’s lead singer, was accused of lip-syncing during a live performance.
The viral clip, which captured TWICE performing their hit I can’t stopshows Nayeon exuding confidence and charisma on stage. However, several fans noted moments where she would lower the microphone to perform dance moves, but her voice would continue flawlessly through the speakers. This led to widespread claims that the idol may have been lip-synching during the set.
The allegations have caused disappointment among some fans, especially since Nayeon has long been considered TWICE’s “ace singer”, praised for her stability in live performances at major award shows and international events. Critics argue that, after a decade in the industry, such a mistake exists “unacceptable” for the lead singer of one of K-pop’s top girl groups.
However, other fans came to Nayeon’s defense, pointing out that using a backing track is a common practice at large-scale concerts. They argue that maintaining consistent sound quality when performing complex choreography is nearly impossible without some level of pre-recorded support, particularly in outdoor venues with unpredictable acoustics.
This incident revived old discussions on the topic TWICEhis live singing skills. In their early years, the group often faced similar accusations, although many blamed it on their inexperience and the intensity of their choreography. Critics now argue that such explanations no longer carry weight given the group’s high-level status in the K-pop scene.
Adding to the controversy, older clips resurfaced showing Nayeon allegedly “forgetting” to hold the microphone close to her mouth as her voice continued to play, further fueling suspicions.
Despite the criticism, loyal fans have pointed to numerous examples of Nayeon singing live, including her lauded performance at Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2025 — to counter claims that it relies on lip-syncing. Many argue that the recent viral clip has been taken out of context and that it is unfair to judge his overall talent based on one performance.
As the debate continues, the incident highlights the persistent tension in K-pop between the pursuit of flawless visuals and the expectation of an authentic live performance. Whether Nayeon faces controversy or not, her stage presence remains undeniable, but so does the scrutiny that comes with being one of K-pop’s most recognizable voices.
