South Korea, a nation that is more or less conservative, is known to make it a priority to block harmful material that may be considered unsuitable for minors. And we get it � protecting our youth from negative influences is something we should encourage. But, when some of our favorite songs get censored for reasons beyond comprehension, we begin to ask, where do they even draw the line? How are these bans even decided? Who's in charge here?!
Let's take a look at some of the most ridiculous K-Pop bans starting with the music video for "Gentleman," which was banned because of the opening scene when Psy kicks the "no parking" traffic cone.
Reason for ban: Abuse of public property
Watch it at: 0:00 - 0:05
T.O.P's music video for "Turn It Up" was banned for showcasing brand name merchandise such as Gucci, Beats, and Dior.
Banned for: Indirect advertisement of brands
Watch it at: All throughout the video
Orange Caramel's music video for "Catallena" was banned because the members were wrapped up as mermaids in food packages.
Banned for: Devaluing human life
Watch it at: 0:30 - 1:00
The track "Fun Boys" by BTS was banned from music stations due to a use of the Chinese phrase "chi fan le ma" for "did you eat" which sounds like a curse word in Korean.
Reason for ban: Use of a Chinese term that "sounds" like a curse word
Watch it at: 2:35 - 2:40
Ji Eun's "Going Crazy" featuring Bang Yong Guk was banned because of the suggestion of crime and obsessive behavior.
Banned for: Encouraging crime
Watch it at: 2:55 - 3:10
2NE1's "Im Busy" was considered disruptive for the use of the term "babo" which means "fool" or "dummy" in Korean.
Banned for: Use of profanity
Listen at: 2:15 - 2:20
Tablo's "Bad" was banned for showing glimpses of alcohol consumption and the images of shattering glass against the human body.
Banned for: Portrayal of violence and substance abuse
Watch it at: 2:15 - 4:00
Dal Shabet's "Joker" was banned for the use of the term "joker" which sounds like the slang for the male genitals in Korean.
Banned for: Use of an American term that "sounds" like an inappropriate word
Watch it at: All throughout the video
Akdong Musician's "Galaxy" was banned for the use of the word "galaxy" which is the name of the popular Samsung line of phones.
Banned for: Indirect advertisement of brands
Watch it at: All throughout the video
Crayon Pop's "Uh-ee" was banned for using the Japanese word "pika," referring the the term "pikapika" which means "sparkle" or "shiny"
Banned for: Use of a Japanese word
Watch it at: 1:20 - 1:25
Miryo's "Dirty" was banned for the usage of the term "cross-eyed."
Banned for: Use of a term that could be perceived as derogatory for the disabled
Watch it at: 2:30 - 2:40
GD & T.O.P's "Knock Out" was banned because of the title which is slang for "obsessed" that usually has sexual connotation.
Banned for: Use of profanity
Watch it at: All throughout the video
Big Bang's "We Like 2 Party" was banned for the advertisement of foreign wine and wine consumption.
Banned for: Indirect advertisement of wine
Watch it at: 1:40 - 2:40
What do you think about these decisions? Share with us below!
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