MBLAQ under fire for ninja-inspired performance of "Run"

MBLAQ's recent performance of "Run" on Music Bank caused much controversy for its use of Japanese ninja-inspired imagery.

While the performance itself was intricately choreographed and beautifully executed, it faced negative reception as it was deemed insensitive, for it was aired just one day after Korea's national celebration of the March 1st Movement (which honors one of the first displays of Korean resistance during the Japanese occupation).

The performance saw the boys in an all-black ensemble dancing to a shoji-inspired back drop. Midway through the song, a breakdown segment was implemented where member Lee Joon performed a sword dance with two katanas.

Netizens commented along the lines of "It was an amazing performance, I give it that, but the whole ninja concept is a bit too much."

Aside from the controversy, fans showed much appreciation for the performance's artistic drive, with many complimenting its visual aesthetics and the exceptional incorporation of Lee Joon's sword dance.

Source: NaverNews