Kiss of Life Faces Backlash Over Cultural Appropriation Concerns
On April 2, 2025, rookie K-pop girl group Kiss of Life sparked controversy during a livestream celebrating member Julie’s birthday. Dressed in oversized apparel and accessorized with chunky gold chains reminiscent of underground hip-hop artists, the members faced accusations of cultural appropriation. Observers criticized the outfits, drawing comparisons to the styles commonly associated with Black communities.
Moreover, fans expressed their discomfort regarding the group’s attempt to mimic Hispanic culture by adopting a distinct accent. In response to the backlash, S2 Entertainment, their management label, issued an apology the following day. According to the Maeil Business Newspaper, the statement articulated:
“We apologize for the use of expressions and styles that follow the stereotypes of a specific race in the birthday content uploaded on the 2nd.”
The statement continued:
“The content was based on the old-school hip-hop style as guided, and we wanted to express the atmosphere in respect of this culture. However, as a result, we were not fully aware that it could be seen as a way to strengthen stereotypes about certain races.”
Adding to the criticism, the members mimicked hairstyles like cornrows and Bantu knots. Belle drew particular attention with her attire reflecting the Latino Cholo subculture, even adopting the playful moniker “Taco Belle.”The discontent predominantly stemmed from the group’s international fan base who found their actions inappropriate.
Connection with Tyla Amidst the Controversy
Further complicating the situation, fans highlighted that South African singer Tyla had purportedly unfollowed Kiss of Life following the backlash. Previously, the group and Tyla had been photographed together during the One Universe Festival in South Korea in 2024. A screenshot shared by a user on X (formerly Twitter) alleged that Tyla followed Kiss of Life member Natty on Instagram in February 2025. However, investigations revealed that Tyla had never followed any of the group members.
The user behind the original screenshot, @jnkfolklore, later confessed that it was fabricated and encouraged fans to distance Tyla from the controversy:
This interaction at the festival had previously led fans to anticipate a potential collaboration between Kiss of Life and Tyla; however, clarification remains elusive, casting uncertainty on this possibility.
About Kiss of Life and Tyla
Kiss of Life (KIOF), formed under S2 Entertainment, comprises members Julie, Natty, Belle, and Haneul. The group debuted in July 2023 with the EP Kiss Of Life. Excitingly, they are slated to perform at the Sziget Festival in Budapest in August 2025, marking a significant milestone as the first K-pop group to take the stage at this renowned event.
Conversely, Tyla is a South African vocalist celebrated for her unique blend of pop and amapiano music. Known for hits like Water, Getting Late, and Girl Next Door, her latest single is Push 2 Start.