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Director of IVE's 'Secret, Cupid' comeback trailer shuts down 'anti-Japanese' accusations

AKP STAFF
Posted by Susan-Han Thursday, August 14, 2025 5,728


The director of IVE's 4th mini album comeback trailer has spoken up to shut down accusations of the film carrying an "anti-Japanese" message. 

The girl group's comeback trailer, revealed on August 8 KST, features a reinterpretation of the Roman god Cupid as the villain. The 6 members of IVE appeared in the trailer as 6 different cupids, interfering in the love affairs of humans. 

In particular, the paper crane emerged frequently as a symbol in the trailer. One scene even featured the paper crane going up in flames, hinting at a dramatic turn in the story of the 6 cupids. 

However, some Japanese netizens interpreted the trailer's treatment of the paper crane as implying "anti-Japanese" views. They argued that the paper crane is a symbol often used to represent Japan, and therefore found the crane's destruction in the film problematic. 

When the issue created a significant buzz on various online platforms, director OUI of the trailer commented on Instagram story, 

"In order to depict the concept of evil cupids who interfere in the love lives of couples, the trailer required a scene in which a paper crane, representing the connection of love, went up in flames. There are no other hidden meanings to it. Peace." 

Meanwhile, IVE's 4th mini album 'IVE SECRET' is set for release on August 25 KST. 

SEE ALSO: IVE opens up 'SHOW WHAT I AM' world tour with sold-out Seoul shows & first-ever solo stages

  1. IVE
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