First off, I really don’t listen to K-pop, J-pop, or any kind of pop, but I have to say something on this.
The recent controversy surrounding K-pop group Kiss of Life’s hip-hop-themed live stream has sparked heated debate, with accusations of cultural mockery and racism leveled against the group. The four members—Julie, Natty, Belle, and Haneul—celebrated Julie’s 25th birthday on April 2 with a YouTube live stream embracing “old-school hip-hop vibes.” They donned oversized chains, snapback hats, and cornrows, lip-synced to 50 Cent’s “In Da Club,” and used nicknames like “Lil Taco Belle” and “Bob Sky.” The backlash was swift, with some fans calling it “modern-day blackface” and others accusing the group of treating Black culture like a “Halloween costume.” Kiss of Life issued a heartfelt apology on April 5, admitting their cultural…
