TOKYO, Nov. 20 -- Aespa are facing an unexpected wave of backlash in Japan after more than 70,000 people signed an online petition demanding the K-pop group be removed from one of the country's biggest year-end shows.

The petition, filed Monday, urges Japan's national broadcaster NHK to cancel the group's scheduled performance at the iconic Red and White Singing Contest, citing concerns over the inclusion of Aespa's Chinese member, Ningning. The annual programme is a cornerstone of Japanese holiday TV, drawing tens of millions of viewers.

According to The Korea Herald, the petition claims Aespa's appearance could "damage Japan's image" and offend those affected by historical tragedies. It also asks the public to support the call for NHK...