The event marks one year to the start of the multi-sport event in Asia, which will run from Aug. 18 to Sept. 2, 2018 in the twin host cities of Jakarta and Palembang, South Sumatra.

However, it is unlikely the group will come in its full force of eight.

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“Regarding the plan on inviting the Korean artist [Girls’ Generation], we need to clarify that what we’re currently negotiating is not Girls’ Generation as a group, but only several of its members,” Creative Economy Agency (Bekraf) head Triawan Munaf said on Instagram. “Because the Asian Games is a large-scale event, we are planning to present several renowned Asian artists aside from Indonesian artists and singers.”

Following the news, some netizens commented negatively on the plan, saying foreign artists like Girls’ Generation should not perform during the celebration of Indonesia’s Independence Day, which falls on Aug. 17. Triawan later clarified the misunderstanding on Twitter. 

“The Asian artists are invited to perform alongside Indonesian artists for the 'Countdown to Asian Games 2018' event, NOT on Proclamation Day," he said, referring to the day using the more common name for the Day of Proclamation of Indonesian Independence. (kes)

Artis asia utk tampil brsm Artis Indonesia utk acara 'Countdown to Asian Games 2018' BUKAN hari proklamasi! https://t.co/dsWOvtA3uk

— Triawan Munaf (@Triawan) July 29, 2017

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