SBS Gayo Daejeon Summer Live Broadcast Glitch Draws Criticism, MCs Under Fire

The 2026 SBS Gayo Daejeon Summer, a major South Korean music program, aired on July 9, but the live broadcast was marred by an awkward incident. All three hosts collectively faltered while introducing the next performer, causing a momentary standstill on stage. A production staff member even rushed onto the stage to check the cue sheet, with the entire scene broadcast live and unedited, quickly drawing heated discussion online.

The 2026 SBS Gayo Daejeon Summer featured 28 artist groups, including Stray Kids, ATEEZ, Red Velvet, RIIZE, and NCT WISH, delivering numerous spectacular performances. The hosting lineup consisted of SUNGCHAN (성찬) of RIIZE, IAN (이안) of Hearts2Hearts, and SION (시온) of NCT WISH.

The program was simultaneously live-streamed on the YouTube channel “SBSKPOP X INKIGAYO.” However, an issue arose during the introduction of the next artist. As the stage transitioned, SION suddenly paused, leaving the stage in an awkward silence. SUNGCHAN appeared flustered, looking around, while IAN waited for further instructions. The three hosts were caught in an uncomfortable moment, exchanging glances.

After the deadlock persisted for a while, a voice from off-stage was heard asking, “Should we try again?” Ultimately, a production staff member walked directly onto the stage to check the cue sheet in SION’s hand. This “firefighting” scene was also fully captured by the live cameras, allowing viewers to witness the unexpected on-air mishap.

Fortunately, the three hosts quickly regained their composure and smoothly resumed the program, with no further major issues. Nevertheless, the sight of the hosts collectively fumbling and staff needing to intervene on stage to check the script left many viewers astonished by the program’s production and the hosts’ preparedness.

Following the broadcast, a wave of criticism emerged online. Some netizens questioned the lack of sufficient rehearsal, arguing that hosts should familiarize themselves with the script and coordinate their rhythm in advance. Others directly stated that the trio clearly lacked chemistry, feeling they “didn’t rehearse properly at all.”