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Julie from KISS OF LIFE has stepped forward to address the backlash following the group’s contentious birthday livestream in April, which was criticized for containing racially insensitive content.
In her apology, Julie expressed the group’s commitment to accountability and growth:
“It’s nerve-wracking to talk about everything that is going on, but because we are a bit of a more mature group, it’s very important for us to take accountability for our actions, whether it is good or bad.”
She went on to acknowledge the mistake and their efforts to learn from it:
“We do realize that what we did was wrong and we spent a lot of time together on how to learn from this and move forward, trying to educate ourselves more so that something like this doesn’t happen again.”
Julie specifically addressed those affected by the incident:
“I want to take this opportunity to apologize to the Black and Latino community. We do understand that we hurt and disappointed a lot of our friends.”
Wrapping up her message, she promised continued growth and dedication to their craft:
“What we can promise is that we’re working hard to be better and show everyone our passion for music, in whatever genre it is.”
Recalling, KISS OF LIFE — KIOF for short — came under fire last April following a YouTube livestream that was meant to celebrate Julie’s 25th birthday but instead stirred controversy over cultural insensitivity.
The April 2 broadcast carried a theme described as "old-school hip-hop vibes," with the members donning oversized chains, snapbacks, and accessories commonly associated with hip-hop fashion.
Fans, however, were quick to call out the group’s styling choices, including cornrows and exaggerated makeup, as appropriative and disrespectful, particularly toward Black and Latina communities.
A now-deleted clip from the stream, later re-uploaded by viewers, showed the group lip-syncing to 50 Cent’s “In Da Club” and referencing a photo of three Black men as their style inspiration. Members introduced themselves with stylized nicknames: Belle as “Lil Taco Belle,” Natty as “NT,” and Haneul as “Bob Sky.”
The reaction online was swift, with many accusing the group of making a "mockery" of Black culture and reinforcing harmful stereotypes. Following mounting criticism, the members issued a detailed apology days later, acknowledging the offense caused by their actions.
Internet reacts to Julie’s apology: “This is how you start making things right”
Julie’s recent apology following the livestream controversy sparked a wave of responses online, with opinions split on whether her words marked genuine accountability or just damage control.
Online user @ShaiJae_X applauded her for taking responsibility:
“Honestly, this is how you start making things right—owning up, no excuses, and actually saying who you hurt . It’s not just about “being mature,” it’s about being accountable when you mess up, especially in the spotlight”
Others, @TayoPSG, weren’t as willing to accept the apology at face value:
“I usually take the side of korean stars but rascism is not defendable. Apologising won't work, set an example for your followers by doing something.”
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Adding to the conversation, @WTNnet expressed cautious optimism:
“Let’s hope this is a real turning point, not just a PR moment.”
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