LE SSERAFIM’s Sakura Addresses “Coachella 2024” Controversy In Heartfelt Post

LE SSERAFIM‘s Sakura recently took to Weverse to reflect on her group’s performance at Coachella 2024, addressing the controversies and criticisms that arose.

In her statement, originally written in Japanese, Sakura touched upon the essence of what it means to perform on such a prestigious stage. The young idol expressed her primary goal was to make their set engaging and memorable, especially for those experiencing LE SSERAFIM’s music for the first time.

“From the preparations for Coachella to the day of the performance, I learned so much.

What does it mean to stand on stage?
Is it about presenting a perfect image?
Is it about entertaining the audience?
Or is it about flawlessly executing the performance without a single mistake?

Standards may vary from person to person. It may also depend on what kind of stage it is. I wanted to create a stage that even those who didn’t know us, those hearing our songs for the first time, would find incredibly fun! A stage that would make them feel that today was a wonderfully unforgettable day. And I believe that my determination came through, and we were able to deliver the best performance.”

— LE SSERAFIM’s Sakura

Addressing the criticism, particularly targeting her vocal performance, Sakura acknowledged that perspectives on performance quality can vary widely. However, she believes that she and the group were able to give a solid, fun performance.

“We, who debuted less than two years ago and have only toured once, stood proudly on the Coachella stage, enjoyed ourselves, and gave our all to this performance.

That alone made it truly a day that defines both life and LE SSERAFIM for me. FEARNOTs, you too will face many challenges and injustices in life. But only you truly know what you have done.

I seriously prepared for this stage, struggled through it, and enjoyed it. On the day of the show, I believe I was able to show everything. To some eyes, it might appear immature, but no one is perfect for everyone, and it is an undeniable fact that, among all the stages we have shown, this was the best. That’s why I’m very excited to become a better team, and I really want to work even harder.”

— LE SSERAFIM’s Sakura

Sakura also touched upon the multiple comparisons that ensued after the HYBE girl group completed their first Coachella performances. Multiple netizens and outlets brought up past K-Pop performances, such as BLACKPINK and aespa‘s.

“What you gain by comparing yourself with others, and what you gain by comparing yourself with your past self, are entirely different. Please, even if just living normally is hard, find something you truly love in this difficult world, and focus only on the good, the things you like.

Focusing only on the good is not indulgence — it’s your life, and you have the right to live it the way you want.”

— LE SSERAFIM’s Sakura

In the end, Sakura shared the warm feedback she received from festival-goers, which contrasted sharply with the online criticism. She also thanked everyone who helped organize the set and the fans for supporting them.

“Today, as I walked around the Coachella grounds, several people came up to me and said, ‘Your performance yesterday was amazing!!!’ Just that alone was incredibly moving for me. The fact that the audience enjoyed themselves till the end, singing along with us and sharing such a wonderful space, is the greatest memory for me.

No matter what anyone thinks, I believe in what I felt. That’s why I’ve come this far. I won’t betray myself, and I will continue to believe in myself. I am filled with gratitude for all the staff, dancers, band members, and everyone who helped create this performance.

And to FEARNOTs, who rushed to the stage and those who watched over us via stream, thank you so much. Because you were there, I could perform with pride. Thank you, truly. And as we continue, I will strive to show you unimaginable sights, so please keep supporting us. Thank you so much, Coachella!!! We’ll keep pushing forward next week too!!!”

— LE SSERAFIM’s Sakura