KISS OF LIFE is once again under fire—this time for their latest comeback performance, which has ignited heated debate among Korean netizens and K-pop fans worldwide. The group recently returned with their second mini album, “224.” The bold and energetic title track “Lips Hips Kiss” headlined the comeback of KISS OF LIFE. But it wasn’t just the music that caught the public’s attention. During their comeback showcase, fans were stunned by the choreography and fashion choice.
Shortly after the performance, a clip of the showcase began circulating on X. One video, in particular, sparked immediate outrage as it showed the KISS OF LIFE members highlighting their bra straps as part of the dance choreography of “Lips Hips Kiss.”
KISS OF LIFE teases the choreography for “Lips, Hips, Kiss”. pic.twitter.com/In6AzTbdJ7
— Kpop Charts (@kchartsmaster) June 8, 2025
Choreography Controversy Erupts Over KISS OF LIFE ‘Lips Hips Kiss’
A now-deleted post criticizing the choreography of “Lips Hips Kiss” amassed over 20,000 likes, with others quickly echoing the sentiment. One user remarked, “I can’t believe this is a real dance move—they’re literally pulling on their bra straps on stage.”
Others went further, pointing out that KISS OF LIFE has a pattern of sexualized choreography, referencing past releases like “Sticky” and “Midas Touch.” A widely shared comment with over 8,000 likes stated, “This isn’t new—it’s just getting worse. The concept is overly sexual, and it’s not needed for a group already gaining traction.”
“The choreography with the bra-strap is so fucking gross. What I mean is, when a fan receives support, they react by flashing their bra-strap themselves and going “ahh”. This is a culture where people do this. Damn, I’m going crazy because it’s disgusting even as I’m typing this.”
X user, @bnm_3748
Generational Clash: Are 4th-Gen Groups Reversing Progress?
Some fans expressed disappointment, arguing that previous generations of K-pop idols worked hard to shed overly suggestive performances. “The 3rd gen fought to break free from this kind of image. Why are we going back?” one user lamented.
These criticisms have struck a nerve in the K-pop community, sparking broader conversations about how female idols are often objectified under the guise of performance art, especially during the formative stages of their careers.
Belle’s Outfit Sparks Further Controversy
The controversy didn’t end with choreography. During a recent performance, member Belle wore a sheer bodysuit with detailing that many fans compared to lingerie. A clip of her executing the bra-strap dance move while wearing the outfit further inflamed the discussion.
“Why are idols wearing things that just look like bras?” questioned one netizen. Although the bodysuit featured an illusion overlay, the styling left many feeling uncomfortable, adding fuel to the ongoing backlash.
제발 옷 좀 입혀라…. https://t.co/DgN5WSOy4V
— 강현수 (@dystopia5218) June 13, 2025
Other netizens commented:
- “The choreography isn’t even the problem, it’s the outfits—do something about them.” @m_ark1smine
- “They clearly meant to make it look like they’re wearing bras disguised as clothes, right?” @jay_ws_
- “Can they please stop with the lingerie-style outfits… Why is everyone just dancing in bras?” @ka_ni900
- “So they’re really going on stage in these ridiculous outfits without even fixing them? This is actually insane.” dldlendn
Not the First Scandal This Year
This isn’t the group’s first brush with controversy in 2025. Earlier this year, KISS OF LIFE was criticized internationally after a livestream surfaced containing what fans described as racially insensitive behavior. While the group has not issued a public apology, these stacked incidents are beginning to tarnish the group’s otherwise rapidly rising image.
Is Shock Factor Replacing Talent in K-pop?
As KISS OF LIFE continues to dominate charts and generate buzz, the line between artistic expression and shock value becomes increasingly blurred. While some argue that the group is simply pushing creative boundaries, others see it as a troubling trend in an industry already battling accusations of over-sexualization.
Whether this controversy will impact the group’s trajectory remains to be seen. One thing is clear: KISS OF LIFE has sparked a much-needed conversation about the evolving—and sometimes regressing—standards of femininity, performance, and responsibility in the K-pop world.
Share your thoughts on whether KISS OF LIFE is pushing creative boundaries or crossing the line—join the discussion in the comments section below.
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