NCT WISH Under Fire for Lackluster Live Radio Performance on 'Cultwo Show'
2025-04-23
Author: Siti
NCT WISH is facing significant backlash following their recent appearance on SBS PowerFM's 'Cultwo Show,' where their disengaged demeanor left many fans and listeners disappointed.
On the April 22 airing, the lively solo artist Chuu, who celebrated her comeback with the mini-album 'Only Cry in the Rain,' contrasted sharply with NCT WISH’s more subdued presence. While Chuu energized the audience with her infectious enthusiasm, the group seemed hesitant and withdrawn.
Throughout the broadcast, which included a visual component, members of NCT WISH frequently looked down and responded with short, timid answers. During a fun segment known as the 'Kkonyang-i Challenge,' several members opted out altogether, which did not sit well with viewers.
Live comments poured in from radio listeners, critiquing their body language and interaction skills. Observations such as 'Look up!' and 'Hold the mic properly!' highlighted the group’s failure to connect. Even Key from SHINee, another veteran of the SM Entertainment roster, chimed in, playfully nudging them to 'do better' as the live audience watched.
Show host Kim Tae Gyun even commented on the awkwardness, playfully remarking, 'NCT WISH is completely frozen.' He thanked member Sion for any signs of liveliness, especially when discussing baseball, saying, 'You seem a bit more lively talking about baseball. Thank you for pushing through.'
Following the show, social media erupted with criticism. Many noted how the group's energy was noticeably low, with one user stating, 'It felt like they didn’t want to be there at all.’ Another listener lamented, 'Their mumbling made the broadcast uncomfortable to watch. It wasn’t just unprofessional—it was tough to bear.'
Some even questioned whether appearing on a radio show was appropriate for them at this stage, arguing, 'Radio thrives on energy and voice. If they weren’t ready to engage, perhaps this wasn’t the right platform.' Fans themselves acknowledged this wasn’t a new issue, pointing out that NCT WISH’s previous on-air performances had also come under fire for lacking enthusiasm.
Yet, some supporters came to the group’s defense, suggesting that NCT WISH’s youth and international composition could contribute to their relative inexperience with live settings. Many fans expressed hope that the group will grow more confident and deliver a more compelling performance in future appearances.