KISS OF LIFE made headlines with their controversial 'hip-hop themed livestream' earlier this week, with many fans feeling the group took the theme too far. With cornrows, Bantu knots, gold chains, and “rapper-themed outfits,” KISS OF LIFE also came under fire for their behavior during the livestream - during which they used stereotypical mannerisms, danced to rap music, referred to one member as 'Lil Taco Belle,' and attempted to freestyle rap.
Controversy erupted over the livestream, and shortly after, KISS OF LIFE's company S2 Entertainment deleted the video and issued an apology. The company stated "The content was produced based on an old-school hip-hop style, and we intended to express respect for this culture. However, we did not realize that it could be perceived as reinforcing stereotypes of a specific race. We sincerely apologize to anyone who felt uncomfortable because of this."
However, even after the company's published apology, many fans are not satisfied. A growing movement of fans is continuing to request personal apologies from the members themselves rather than the company, calling for a boycott of the group, and leaving hate comments under the group's posts. Adding fuel to the fire, members Haneul and Belle have resumed posting selfies and other personal updates to their social media, which has left fans even more upset.
Comments under this recent selfie post from Haneul included:
"Just selfish and ignorant"
"Kiss of racism"
"We are still waiting for your apology"
"You can pretend nothing happened because the korean fans won't really care abt this. but remember that your fandom has large amount of overseas fans too. your fandom isn't even big in korea let's admit it. this strategy won't work"
"This is so horrible of you not to apologize, your actions were disgusting, apologize or simply disband"
"Apologize now"
"I expected more from you.."
"Why are you posting like nothing happened"
"You guys just won't even apologize? what about your fans who spend YEARS in fanbases helping you guys since debut?"
Meanwhile, KISS OF LIFE has now lost over 200,000 followers across their social media in only a few days since the incident. With some fans dropping the group entirely, others are wondering what impact the controversy will have on the group's previously explosive career, if any.
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