In a spectacular showcase of K-pop talent, SBS's Gayo Daejeon brought together some of the biggest names in the industry, featuring an exciting mix of group performances and surprise collaborations. Among the unforgettable moments, there was a particular performance that took center stage—ILLIT's Iroha gave fans a special dance rendition to RIIZE’s catchy track, "Siren."

While the performance was meant to be an exciting tribute, it didn’t sit well with many fans of RIIZE. Some voiced their frustrations on social media, suggesting the cover was an odd choice since both groups are relatively new to the scene. "Isn’t it funny for a rookie group to cover another rookie’s song? It almost feels like HYBE is twisting the knife after all the criticism thrown at SM," one fan commented.

Adding to the drama, some fans pointed out that covering "Siren" is no easy feat due to its challenging choreography. Critics expressed disbelief that a group riddled with controversies was given the task of tackling such complex dance moves. Many felt that it would have been more appropriate for RIIZE to showcase their own talent with an original performance instead.

Moreover, the backlash intensified as previous internal statements from HYBE surfaced, further complicating the situation. Netizens slammed the decision to cover an SM song, with comments like, "Why would they pick an SM song when they have so many of their own hits?" and "It just feels absurd with all the scandal swirling around them."

Adding to the conversation, some observed that one member, while surprisingly tall, struggled notably with the choreography. Viewers noted that during a past performance on "Inkigayo," the member appeared lost, frequently glancing at others instead of fully engaging with the routine. This raised questions about whether these issues could be resolved through practice or if deeper concerns existed regarding their training.

In a heated climate where fans passionately defend their favorites, the move to perform an SM song not only sparked debate but also revealed the complex rivalries existing within the K-pop industry. With the lines clearly drawn between rival companies, many are watching to see how this situation plays out and what it means for the future of both HYBE and SM Entertainment.

What are your thoughts on this unfolding drama? Should HYBE step back from covering SM tracks, or is this just part of the competitive landscape of K-pop?