KISS OF LIFE's 'Lucky' Japanese Debut Sparks Racism and Plagiarism Debate

KISS OF LIFE makes its Japanese debut.
The launch faced immediate racism allegations.
Plagiarism claims also surrounded the music video.

The highly-anticipated Japanese debut of the rising K-pop group KISS OF LIFE has officially begun with the release of their first mini-album, 'TOKYO MISSION START,' and its vibrant title track "Lucky." The group, known for their confident and chic concepts, has embarked on a promotional tour in Japan, aiming to captivate a new audience with their unique musical color.

However, what should have been a purely celebratory launch has been quickly overshadowed by a wave of online criticism, dragging the group into allegations of racism and plagiarism before the album even had a chance to speak for itself.

KISS OF LIFE's Debut in Japan

For their Japanese debut, KISS OF LIFE fully embraced the energetic and eclectic vibe of Tokyo. The title track "Lucky" is a laid-back hip-hop infused song that showcases the group's signature funk and swag.

The accompanying music video is a visual love letter to the city, featuring the members, Julie, Natty, Belle, and Haneul, exploring vibrant urban landscapes, from bustling streets to quirky, stylized sets. The concept teasers leading up to the release hinted at a dynamic range of styles, from a magical girl, Y2K-inspired aesthetic to a grungy, rebellious rockstar transformation.

In one set of concept photos, the members sported bold denim looks and posed with guitars and amplifiers against a backdrop of striking graffiti, fully embodying a funky, individualistic persona. The "Lucky" MV brings all this energy together, depicting the members as the charismatic center of their own Tokyo adventure, seemingly having the time of their lives as they take over the city.

A Cloud of Controversy: Racism and Plagiarism Allegations

However, shortly after a teaser clip for the "Lucky" music video was posted online, the group found themselves at the center of a heated debate.

The teaser featured the members posing in front of a bedazzled truck adorned with a poster that depicted them in a cartoonified, Bratz doll-like style.

Almost immediately, netizens pointed out that the illustrated figures on the poster, with their specific features, did not resemble the Korean members of KISS OF LIFE but instead looked like four Black women. This did not sit well with many, especially given the group's past controversies regarding the appropriation of Black culture. The backlash was swift and direct on social media platforms.

"i got 2 questions..
1. is this supposed to be them
2. if it is..why are they black?????"

"The poster is 3 black girls."

"who are the nigg*s on the van behind them cause i know they aint tryna pass that off as four korean women."

Some fans attempted to defend the creative direction by suggesting the art was inspired by the Japanese 'gyaru' subculture, known for its tanned skin and bold fashion.

However, this defense was quickly challenged by others who argued that the specific artistic style in question shared little with typical 'gyaru' aesthetics.

Simultaneously, another set of criticisms emerged, accusing the teaser's visuals of bearing a striking resemblance to the music video for "Underground" by the Japanese girl group F5VE. Side-by-side comparisons circulated online, highlighting similar concepts involving a decorated truck and a cartoon poster backdrop, leading to further accusations of plagiarism.

"f5ve being the blueprint for those fraudulent kpop companies and their sinking groups...... oh god5ve, you will always be famous!!!"

Despite the swirling controversy, the full music video was released as scheduled and has been met with positive reactions from many viewers in the comments section, who are praising the song and KISS OF LIFE performances. This has created a clear divide, leaving the public to weigh the group's creative intentions against the valid concerns of critics, ensuring that their Japanese mission start is as complicated as it is high-profile.

Meanwhile, 'TOKYO MISSION START' is out now, and KISS OF LIFE will set off on their concert tour in Japan, kicking off on December 10 in Fukuoka, and heading to Osaka and Tokyo from December 11-12, and December 16, respectively.

Watch KISS OF LIFE - Lucky below:

Source: Allkpop, Koreaboo, X, KISS OF LIFE's official account