Former Girls’ Generation (SNSD) member Jessica Jung’s performance of a medley of the group’s hit songs has drawn mixed reactions from K-pop fans and netizens online.
On January 11, the 36-year-old singer performed a surprise medley of SNSD songs for the first time since her departure from the group in 2014 during her “Reflections” concert in Malaysia, Channel News Asia reported.
The South Korean-American singer showcased her vocal ability and polished dance skills as she performed iconic SNSD tracks such as “Gee,” “Genie,” “The Boys” and “Into the New World,” prompting loud chants from the audience at the Arena of Stars.
In addition to the nostalgic performance, Jessica played a retrospective video during the concert that referenced the other SNSD members and highlighted milestones from her music career.
“It’s about every version of me I’ve been… It’s not about erasing the past or forgetting about it; it’s about embracing everything and all the memories we shared, every lesson and all the dreams we had together. I carry them with me and they make me stronger,” she said.
Fans welcome performance, fuel hopes of OT9 reunion
Following the performance, many OT9 Sones — fans of SNSD’s original nine-member line-up — took to social media to share their reactions, with some expressing hope for a full reunion ahead of the group’s 20th anniversary in 2027.
Several fans said Jessica’s performance brought them emotional closure after her departure from the group more than a decade ago.
“Seeing Jessica Jung perform Girls’ Generation’s hits this 2026 has healed a part of my Sone heart that’s been hurting since the moment she left. Thank you to our princess for giving us closure and healing,” an X user wrote.
Others said they were simply glad to see Jessica perform songs she helped popularise, emphasising her role in the group’s success.
“I’m just so happy to see Jessica perform all the songs she was part of and worked hard on alongside the other eight members,” another X user said.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: ‘Squid Game’ creator’s new series greenlit by Netflix
Sharp criticism over nostalgia, legacy
However, the performance also sparked backlash, with some netizens accusing Jessica of capitalising on SNSD’s legacy to generate interest in her solo tour and career.
“Why did she even leave? LOL. Now she wants to cash in on nostalgia,” a user said, as quoted by AllKpop.
Others said they felt uncomfortable with her performing the group’s songs following her departure and the subsequent release of novels that many fans believe alluded to the group and its members.
“Even if you leave, sure, you can technically do it, but after going around giving interviews and releasing a novel clearly referencing Girls’ Generation and continuously ruining their legacy, why do this? The nerve is unreal,” another user commented.
Some netizens also criticised the performance itself, accusing Jessica of lip-syncing and claiming her skills had declined since leaving the group.
A controversial exit
Jessica debuted as a member of SNSD in 2007 alongside Taeyeon, Sunny, Tiffany, Hyoyeon, Yuri, Sooyoung, Yoona and Seohyun under SM Entertainment.
The group quickly rose to global fame with its catchy songs and mass appeal, becoming one of the most influential K-pop acts and playing a significant role in the genre’s international expansion.
In 2014, Jessica announced that she had been dismissed from the group, with SM Entertainment later citing conflicts between group schedules and her business activities as the reason for her exit.
Since then, Jessica has pursued a solo music career, releasing several albums and EPs, including “With Love, J,” “Wonderland,” “My Decade” and “Beep Beep.”
Beyond music, she has authored the best-selling novel “Shine” and its sequel “Bright,” founded the fashion label Blanc & Eclare, and taken on acting projects, including the musical “Legally Blonde” and Chinese films such as “I Love That Crazy Little Thing” and “My Other Home.”
READ NEXT: Movie news: ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ bags Critics’ Choice Awards
Angelica N. Hall 
Shameeka Voyiya 
Carmela Calling