The group Kiss of Life apologized for the racial discrimination controversy.
The group's agency, S2 Entertainment, stated through its official social media, "We apologize for using expressions and styles that follow stereotypes of a specific race in the birthday content uploaded on the 2nd."
The agency explained, "The content was produced based on old-school hip-hop style as directed, and we intended to express that atmosphere in a way that respects this culture; however, we did not fully realize that it could be perceived as reinforcing stereotypes about a specific race."
The agency continued, "We sincerely apologize to anyone who felt discomfort due to this. Currently, the members also take this matter seriously, and we will approach borrowing cultural elements with more caution and a more respectful attitude in the future."
As a result, all related content will be deleted.
Earlier, on the 2nd, Kiss of Life communicated with fans through a video for Julie's birthday, during which members styled as hip-hop rappers engaged in skits related to Black rappers, leading overseas fans to raise concerns and sparking controversy.
The following is the full statement from the agency.
Hello.
This is S2 Entertainment.
We apologize for using expressions and styles that follow stereotypes of a specific race in the birthday content uploaded on the 2nd.
The content was produced based on old-school hip-hop style as directed, and we intended to express that atmosphere in a way that respects this culture. However, we did not fully realize that it could be perceived as reinforcing stereotypes about a specific race.
We sincerely apologize to anyone who felt discomfort due to this. Currently, the members also take this matter seriously, and we will approach borrowing cultural elements with more caution and a more respectful attitude in the future. Consequently, all related content will be deleted.
We once again apologize to those who were hurt by this.
Thank you.
[Photo] OSEN DB
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