KISS OF LIFE Receive Massive Backlash Over Member’s Black Theme Birthday Livestream, Agency Issues Apology
KISS OF LIFE (KIOF) has issued an apology regarding a recent controversy over racial insensitivity due to a recent live stream the members held!
Last night, KISS OF LIFE faced criticism from international fans for their birthday content, in which members took on the concept of a Black rapper’s girlfriend, using a name that some perceived as mockery. The members can be seen throughout the live broadcast imitating the way black people speak, their mannerism, the way they dress and more.
The live broadcast immediately came under fire from international fans who thought the members were very insensitive and many were shocked that the live stream concept was greenlit to begin with. Additionally, one member braided part of her hair, and one member called the other ‘lil taco’ for some reason.
Many people also brought up the fact that member Julie had previously sang the N word and then issued an apology to fans saying she’s working hard to educate herself and will do better in the future, thus, the actions of the members came under even more fire from black kpop fans.
Considering how two members of the group were born in America, many also questioned why they agreed to do it to begin with.
Here is a video of the live stream:
On April 3, their agency S2 Entertainment released an official statement through its channels to apologize for the birthday live stream.
They explained, “The content was produced based on an old-school hip-hop style, as indicated, with the intention of respecting and expressing the atmosphere of that culture. However, we failed to fully recognize that it could ultimately reinforce stereotypes about a particular race.”
Read the Full Apology from S2 Entertainment below:
Hello, This is S2 Entertainment.
We sincerely apologize for using expressions and styles that followed certain racial stereotypes in the birthday content uploaded on April 2.
As previously stated, the content was produced based on an old-school hip-hop style, with the intention of respecting and expressing the atmosphere of that culture. However, we failed to fully recognize that it could ultimately reinforce stereotypes about a particular race.
We sincerely apologize to everyone who felt uncomfortable because of this. The members are also taking this matter seriously, and we will be more cautious and respectful when incorporating cultural elements in the future. As a result, all related content will be deleted.
Once again, we deeply apologize to those who were hurt by this.
Thank you.
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