With the K-Pop industry continually expanding at an impressive rate, the rise of rookie groups has been phenomenal — making it challenging for older generations to keep track of them all. Among many groups that have debuted in recent years, NewJeans has emerged as the standout, capturing widespread attention and headlines. It’s understandable, then, that an ahjumma (an older Korean woman) might confuse other 4th generation female idols for members of NewJeans, given their rising popularity and the influx of new talent.
| PCM
That’s exactly what happened in a hilarious incident that has recently gained attention on Twitter — where TripleS member Yooyeon was mistaken for a member of NewJeans.
Yooyeon | @snowlotus0209/Twitter
This event occurred while Yooyeon and her group members were surrounded by fans and photographers. An ahjumma passing by, intrigued by the scene and recognizing the girls as celebrities, exclaimed in surprise, believing she had encountered NewJeans in person.
What’s happening?! My gosh, I must be dreaming! I’m seeing NewJeans in real life?!
— Ahjumma
Yooyeon | @snowlotus0209/Twitter
Yooyeon’s honest response only made the situation funnier, leaving fans amused that the idol would even address that in real-time. It seems like Yooyeon really wanted to help the ahjumma out and erase her confusion. Yooyeon responded with humor and grace, stating, “I’m not NewJeans,” while laughing and gesturing an “X” with her hands.
231218
一般のおばちゃんに「Newjeansですか？」って聞かれたから、「はい、そうです！」って答えたらユヨンが照れてちゃんと断ったｗｗｗ#tripleS #트리플에스 #トリプルS#YooYeon #KimYooYeon #김유연#EVOLution #에볼루션 pic.twitter.com/v3SN6LFDmn
— メッチュマン (@metmet5522) December 18, 2023
To understand why the ahjumma might have made this mistake, it’s essential to look at both groups. TripleS, managed by MODHAUS, debuted in 2023 and is known for its unique concept. The group consists of 24 members, divided into various sub-units like Acid Angel from Asia, +(KR)ystal Eyes, Acid Eyes, and LOVElution. Each sub-unit offers different musical styles and concepts, showcasing the members’ diverse talents. The group’s CEO, Jaden Jeong, is a well-known figure in the K-Pop industry, having worked with LOONA and other prominent groups.
Yooyeon in Acid Angel from Asia. | MODHAUS
Their music, like “Rising” and “Girls’ Capitalism,” performed by the sub-unit LOVElution, has a refreshing and lively rhythm, attracting a broad audience. The group has also embarked on a world tour, showcasing their global appeal and talent.
In contrast, NewJeans has also been making waves as a rookie group and grabbed most of the attention, leading to the possibility of confusion among those less familiar with the rapidly evolving K-Pop scene. Both groups embody the youthful, vibrant energy that characterizes many 4th generation K-Pop groups, making them easily recognizable and popular among younger audiences but potentially confusing for those not as closely following the genre.
This incident charmingly highlights the generational gap in the perception of K-pop idols, while also showcasing the approachable and down-to-earth nature of idols like Yooyeon, who handle such situations with humor and grace.
