First off, I really don’t listen to K-pop, J-pop, or any kind of pop, but I have to say something on this.
The recent controversy surrounding K-pop group Kiss of Life’s hip-hop-themed live stream has sparked heated debate, with accusations of cultural mockery and racism leveled against the group. The four members—Julie, Natty, Belle, and Haneul—celebrated Julie’s 25th birthday on April 2 with a YouTube live stream embracing “old-school hip-hop vibes.” They donned oversized chains, snapback hats, and cornrows, lip-synced to 50 Cent’s “In Da Club,” and used nicknames like “Lil Taco Belle” and “Bob Sky.” The backlash was swift, with some fans calling it “modern-day blackface” and others accusing the group of treating Black culture like a “Halloween costume.” Kiss of Life issued a heartfelt apology on April 5, admitting their cultural insensitivity and promising to educate themselves. Yet, this incident raises a broader question: when does cultural appreciation cross into racism, and are we too quick to judge?
Never Forget ✊🏾 pic.twitter.com/wBVt0AqwS6
— sage (@hissirenseong) May 13, 2025
From a Kansas man’s perspective, the rush to label this incident as racist overlooks the group’s stated intent and the complexities of cultural exchange. Kiss of Life emphasized that their goal was to celebrate old-school hip-hop, a genre that heavily influences their music. Hip-hop, born in Black communities, has become a global phenomenon, shaping music, fashion, and culture worldwide. For a K-pop group to draw inspiration from it is not inherently malicious. The members’ choice of attire and playful nicknames, while perhaps misguided, reflects an attempt to pay homage to a style they admire, not to mock or degrade it. Accusing them of racism assumes ill intent without evidence, ignoring the possibility that their misstep stemmed from ignorance rather than malice.
Kiss of Life really ruined their whole career with one live.
— вrie ⁸ ♡ SEEING SKZ & ATZ VIP!! (@3hyunyeol) May 16, 2025
