Everybody loves a good underdog story in K-pop. S2 Entertainment’s girl group KISS OF LIFE was on its way to becoming one of the most successful K-pop groups of fourth gen. Fans loved the girls for their talent and fresh vibe; however, a live event for a member’s birthday based on hip-hop/black culture ruined it all. Despite apologising for the controversy, the group still hasn’t been able to recover the momentum they once had. Now, KISS OF LIFE is once again under scrutiny for recent teasers for an upcoming Japan comeback. Read on to know more.
KISS OF LIFE’s Japanese Music Video Hit With Racism And Plagiarism Accusations
KISS OF LIFE recently released promotional teaser pictures for their upcoming Japanese comeback titled TOKYO MISSION START. Along with concept pictures, a teaser for their music video titled ‘Lucky’ was also put out. The 15-second preview clip showed the KISS OF LIFE members dressed in trendy Y2K outfits while standing in front of a bedazzled truck.
The teaser clip for KISS OF LIFE’s music video went viral as soon as it was posted on social media. Netizens pointed out how the artwork in the background looks like four black girls due to the skin tone rather than the KISS OF LIFE members themselves. This particularly attracted criticism as the members had been in controversy for mocking black culture in the past during a birthday live for Julie.
Some people, however, defended the girl group by saying that they had taken inspiration from Japan’s “gyaru” subculture. “Gyaru” is a Japanese fashion subculture that emerged in the 1970s, known for its rebellious spirit and bold style. The key characteristics of the aesthetic include heavily styled, dyed hair, elaborate makeup, and brightly colored, flashy clothing.
However, users on X (formerly Twitter) dismissed the theory that the group’s concept was inspired by “gyaru” as they could not spot any similarities between the ‘Lucky’ music video and the traditional elements of the subculture.
Also Read: KISS OF LIFE Julie, VERIVERY’s Agency Issues Statement On Alleged Private Room Video Controversy
KISS OF LIFE was also accused of plagiarising and being heavily inspired by the popular J-pop group F5VE. Some felt that the visuals had a striking resemblance to the group’s music video for ‘Underground.’
Also Read: Netizens Demand Apology From KISS OF LIFE Over Offensive Livestream. Know More Here!
Source: Koreaboo