A pre-debut K-Pop girl group and their agency have become a hot topic online, drawing mixed reactions from fans and critics alike. On January 10, 2026, Na Entertainment launched the official social media accounts for their upcoming global girl group, N.angels. The agency also announced that they would begin revealing trainees who have passed their online tests. These trainees will undergo formal training in Korea before being officially introduced as members of N.angels’ debut lineup.
The group, which boasts over ten members from various countries including the United States, Spain, Kenya, India, Indonesia, and Brazil, aims to capture a global audience. Vinka, an Indonesian trainee, was the first to be introduced through a teaser video on January 10, which included her profile information such as MBTI and birthday. A week later, on January 17, Yoon, a 21-year-old Brazilian trainee, was introduced. However, Yoon’s stage name has sparked criticism on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), with many arguing that it clashes with her ethnic background.
Controversy Surrounding Na Entertainment
The criticism extends beyond just the stage name, as Na Entertainment itself has been under scrutiny. Originally founded as LPA Entertainment in 1982, the company underwent a series of rebrandings, becoming Namoo Entertainment in 2022 and Na Entertainment in 2023. The agency’s history is marred by controversies, including a high-profile scandal in 2022 involving their first multinational girl group, Angel Rus.
In 2022, Angel Rus’s debut was abruptly cancelled, leading to a police investigation into the company’s practices. Reports surfaced that trainees were allegedly asked to submit full-body photos in underwear weekly.
The fallout from this scandal saw the departure of the agency’s CEO and left a lasting impact on Na Entertainment’s reputation. Despite these challenges, the company continued its efforts to launch new groups, including DE:VA in 2024. However, DE:VA’s debut was also fraught with issues, as the group announced their departure from the agency in December 2024, citing a search for new representation.
Industry Reactions and Expert Opinions
The recurring controversies surrounding Na Entertainment have sparked discussions within the K-Pop industry about trainee welfare and agency accountability. Industry experts argue that the pressures faced by trainees, particularly in multinational groups, can be exacerbated by cultural misunderstandings and mismanagement.
According to Dr. Kim Soo-jin, a cultural studies professor specializing in K-Pop, “The global expansion of K-Pop is a double-edged sword. While it opens up opportunities for diverse talent, it also demands a deeper understanding of cultural sensitivities and ethical practices.”
Meanwhile, fans and netizens are divided in their reactions. Some express support for the trainees, urging the agency to address the criticisms constructively. Others remain skeptical, questioning whether Na Entertainment can overcome its troubled past.
The Future of N.angels and Na Entertainment
As N.angels prepares for their official debut, the spotlight remains on Na Entertainment to navigate the challenges ahead. The agency’s ability to manage its public image and address past controversies will be crucial in determining the group’s success.
Looking forward, industry insiders suggest that Na Entertainment must prioritize transparency and ethical practices to rebuild trust with both fans and artists. The company’s willingness to adapt and learn from past mistakes could set a precedent for other agencies in the rapidly evolving K-Pop landscape.
As the debut of N.angels approaches, the K-Pop community watches closely, eager to see whether the group can transcend the controversies and capture the hearts of a global audience.
