'Why so stiff?' EXO's Kai and choreographer Bada Lee's 'M Countdown' performance sparks backlash

As speculation about K-pop group EXO's disbandment continues to trend online, a separate controversy is gaining attention ¡ª this time involving member Kai and his recent performance on M Countdown.

Kai made a return to the spotlight following his military discharge and performed his latest track, Adult Swim. During the set, choreographer Bada Lee joined him for a duet portion. This combo went on to quickly spark backlash after performance clips went viral.

Performance sparks backlash

The performance quickly drew criticism online, with many calling out Kai and Bada Lee for their lack of chemistry and "stiff" dancing ¡ª a stark contrast to their reputations as top-tier performers. While some fans defended the stage as artistic and visually unique, negative reactions largely dominated social media.

Some viewers even argued that the female dancer from the music video would have been a stronger on-stage partner for Kai. On X (formerly Twitter), reactions poured in:

One wrote, "Bada Lee and EXO Kai match each other¡¯s stiffness in the new dance performance."

Bada lee and Exo Kai match each others stiffness in new dance performance pic.twitter.com/jMeHPNaNZr

¡ª Flop Kpop (@TheFlopKpop) April 3, 2025

Another said, "I think they both outgrew each other in dance. Why is Bada so stiff? Kai should try a different partner ¡ª bring in the MV girl, she danced so well."

I think they both outgrew each other in dance, and why is bada so stiff? Kai needs to try having a different dance partner, bring in this girl, she danced so good https://t.co/2yLQDqPqQe pic.twitter.com/2jBLdbKn5X

¡ª Alexia?? ??? (@Alyxiss_N) April 3, 2025

One wrote, "I loved Kai's dancing, but the choreo doesn't fit the song. It should¡¯ve been something smoother to match the vibe. I don¡¯t get what Bada Lee and Vata were thinking."

I loved Kai's dancing but the choreo just doesn't fit the song, it should be something smoother to go with the vibe. I don't get what Bada Lee and Vata were thinking... ??

¡ª NiniAtiny (@NiniAtinyLsc) April 4, 2025

Another said, "Kai used to be better than this ¡ª what¡¯s going on? And Bada Lee... girl can¡¯t find the rhythm."

Kai used to be better than this what is going on lmao and bada lee girl can¡¯t find the rhythm

¡ª ???????? (@Xuirin) April 4, 2025

More about Adult Swim

The song marks Kai's first release since completing his military service and acts as the pre-release single for his upcoming fourth mini album, Wait On Me, set to drop on April 21. The track is described as capturing "dreamy, oceanic imagery".

Not just that, Kai will also be on the road for his 2025 KAI SOLO CONCERT TOUR, beginning this May in Seoul and spanning 10 cities.

He's also slated to make his long-awaited return to the UK stage for the first time in five years, performing at SMTOWN Live in London on June 28 at Allianz Twickenham Stadium as part of SM Entertainment's 30th anniversary celebration.

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