The Kpop scene is not just because of the summer heat. KISS OF LIFE's recent release, "Sticky," has sparked a fiery debate online, with fans divided on whether the music video is a summer anthem or a case of oversexualization.
The Sticky Situation
"Sticky" is undeniably a catchy tune, perfect for soaking up the sun. However, after specific clips went viral, featuring the group in what some perceived as suggestive positions, concerns arose that the concept was exploiting the members. This isn't an unfamiliar territory in K-Pop; groups like Cignature have faced similar criticism, with fans highlighting the case of member Jeewon's allegedly revealing outfit compared to the others.
Fans Take a Stand with Proof
But KISS OF LIFE fans are firing back, armed with "receipts" to defend the group. Â They argue that the concept is the brainchild of the members themselves. Â Unlike the traditional model where companies dictate the idol's image, Â creative director Lee Hae In revealed that Julie, a member of KISS OF LIFE, actively shapes the group's direction. She drafts the album plans and presents them to the company, a refreshing twist on the power dynamic.
Girl Power Behind the Scenes
Adding fuel to the fire, fans point out that KISS OF LIFE's team is predominantly female, further dispelling the notion of forced sex appeal. They argue that a group of women wouldn't necessarily shy away from wanting a "hot" concept, especially for a summer comeback.
"Sticky" with Excitement
via kpopsingers.com
The girls themselves have been vocal about their enthusiasm for "Sticky." Social media posts show them expressing their sheer joy for this comeback, claiming it feels most authentic to their identity as a group.
Sexy by Choice
Ultimately, fans emphasize that KISS OF LIFE are adults. Sexuality is a personal expression, and women should be free to embrace it without sparking controversy. Â Moreover, they highlight that the group's core message revolves around female empowerment, which includes the freedom to be sexy on their own terms.
Drawing the LineÂ
While the fight against forced oversexualization is crucial, fans believe it shouldn't overshadow situations where female artists are genuinely exploring their sensuality. Â They point out that the youngest member, Hanuel, was dressed more modestly and wasn't involved in the controversial clips.
The Verdict? Still Sticky
The debate surrounding "Sticky" is a microcosm of the ongoing struggle in K-Pop: balancing artistic expression with responsible representation. Whether the concept empowers or exploits is ultimately a matter of interpretation. However, KISS OF LIFE's fans have made a compelling case, presenting evidence that suggests the group is in control of their image and embracing their sexuality as a deliberate artistic choice.
KISS OF LIFE's "Sticky": Fresh and Sexy, or Questionable?
https://kpopinfo114.wordpress.com/female_artist_profiles/k/kiss-of-life-profile/
KISS OF LIFE, the K-Pop rookie girl group known for their undeniable talent and image, dropped their latest music video, "Sticky," on June 30, 2024. As expected from a group known for pushing boundaries, the video sparked a heated debate amongst fans, particularly in Korea.
International Fans Dig the Vibe
International fans were quick to shower the video with praise, lauding it for its "fresh, sexy, sporty vibe" and irresistible charm. Social media platforms with positive reactions, with many crowning KISS OF LIFE as "the IT group of their generation."
Korean Fans Divided
However, the response in Korea painted a different picture. The music video, while undeniably fun and flirtatious, left the Korean fandom sharply divided. While some scenes went viral, sparking conversation across online communities, the concept itself became a point of contention.
Concerns Over Sexualization
A significant portion of Korean fans expressed concern about the video's sexual nature. They felt the management was overexploiting the members' "hot girl" image, potentially putting them at risk of sexual harassment. Many called for a return to KISS OF LIFE's original concept, rooted in freedom and fun.
Theqoo Users Defend the Concept
The online forum theqoo, however, became a battleground for differing opinions. Numerous comments defended the concept, arguing that it wasn't new to K-Pop and wasn't inherently sexualizing. Comparisons were drawn to veteran girl group SISTAR, whose music videos were known for their alluring nature.
Finding the Balance
The key point of discussion revolved around the concept's execution. While some found the video tasteful and in line with KISS OF LIFE's established image, others felt specific scenes, like the "bike scene," went overboard. The consensus seemed to be that the video walked a tightrope, with some fans worried that future concepts might push boundaries further.
Comments on KISS OF LIFE's "Sticky" Music Video
Here's a breakdown of the comments on KISS OF LIFE's "Sticky" music video:
Generally Positive:
"I liked it, LOL. The bike scene did throw me off a bit, but all other scenes felt within what the girls have been showing us as part of their performances." (Likes the video overall, with a minor critique of the bike scene)
"The MV in general was great. I love the song." (Enjoys the music video and the song itself)
"I love it. The members made it look so good, too." (Loves the entire concept and the members' execution)
"I have no issue with it either... I think they're very close to 'the line,' but they didn't cross it. Haha. The song's a bop." (Approves of the video and finds the song catchy)
Mixed Feelings:
"The bike scene caught me off guard, but the MV in general was great." (Likes most of the video but questions the bike scene)
"So much backlash for what... I am worried, though, because concepts like this gets worse with time." (Approves of the concept but worries it might become more extreme in the future)
"Yes, the bike is extra AF. But other than that, the MV looks fine? Maybe it's because the bike numbed me." (Dislikes the bike scene but finds the rest acceptable)
"I think people hate the bike scene because it feels too forced and it doesn't even make the member look good. But overall, the MV is awesome because the members look happy doing what they do. So the revealing outfits and the racy choreography don't come off as vulgar." (Dislikes the execution of the bike scene but appreciates the positive energy and avoids finding the rest vulgar)
"Yeah, the bike part is a bit much. But everything else, I think, is very on brand for KISS OF LIFE so it doesn't come off as weird." (Finds the bike scene excessive but sees it within the group's established concept)
Defending the Concept:
"IDK, some of the fans hate it for some reason." (Confused by the negativity towards the video)
"I thought the bike scene was more comical than sexy. Everything else, I thought it was a part of the concept they're pushing. And TBH, I think it's SISTAR-esque. In fact, it's not even as out-right SEXY as some of SISTAR's MVs were." (Finds the concept playful rather than overly sexual and compares it to past successful girl groups)
"All the members are of age and they also like pursuing this look and concept. So what I don't understand is why everyone else is so pressed about it." (Points out the members' agency and questions why fans are concerned about their image)
Moving Forward
Embracing a sexy image, especially for a rookie girl group, is a double-edged sword in K-Pop. Backlash is almost inevitable when exploring more mature concepts. However, the undeniable generated by "Sticky" suggests that KISS OF LIFE might be onto a winning formula. Perhaps the answer lies in striking a balance -- staying true to their identity while pushing boundaries in a tasteful way. Ultimately, the future success of "Sticky" and KISS OF LIFE itself might hinge on the group's ability to navigate these choppy waters.
