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Discussions regarding this controversy are trending on Weibo.
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IVE, a K-Pop girl group, has become the subject of heated debate among Chinese netizens following the release of their music video for “HEYA.” While the group intended to showcase Korean cultural heritage, their depiction has sparked allegations of co-opting Chinese cultural hallmarks and labeling them Korean.
![Controversy Erupts Over IVE’s “HEYA” MV for Alleged Cultural Appropriation by Chinese Audience 5 ive mv similarities](https://i0.wp.com/theubj.com/uae/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ive-mv-similarities.jpg?resize=925%2C2659)
The members of IVE showcase jeogori tops and norigae pendants typical of traditional Korean dress, set against a backdrop inspired by Korean vistas. Accessories such as smoking pipes and fans are depicted, emphasizing the Korean atmosphere.
love the references to Korean traditional paintings and tales in IVE’s Heya sm pic.twitter.com/nCUmoowWAT
— . ˚◞♡ blue ꕤ (@velvetmelodyy) April 24, 2024
Artist Park Ji Eun was commissioned by Starship Entertainment to create artwork that stood out for its traditional Korean essence. She adopted traditional painting techniques on hanji paper, portraying the magnificence of Korea and a sun-loving tiger.
아이브 신곡 • 해야 Heya
2D 손그림 원화
작화총괄 및 캐릭터 디자인으로 참여했어요.https://t.co/WSbL4XNwPn— 찐사마•지은 Ji eun (@zzinsama) April 29, 2024
Despite these efforts, several Chinese critics dispute the authenticity of the cultural displays, pointing out artistic attributes such as ink wash illustrations and cloud motifs typical of Chinese artistry within the video.
![Controversy Erupts Over IVE’s “HEYA” MV for Alleged Cultural Appropriation by Chinese Audience 6 ive mv similarities 4](https://i0.wp.com/theubj.com/uae/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ive-mv-similarities-4.jpg?resize=925%2C2639)
The eruption on social media intensified with direct criticism of Park Ji Eun’s work, including calling her a “cultural thief.”
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The debate caught fire on the Weibo platform, with netizens voicing strong opinions.
- “Is this a robbery? This is a grand theft.”
- “It has already come to this, but our IVE fans are still trying to shift the blame. How nice.”
- “Aigoo, you Koreans like this?”
- “They want to steal everything, but they do such a poor job of it. This looks so old-school.”
- “Did their agency receive a mission from the president to use K-Pop to promote their culture of stealing? They’re stealing left and right.”
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As the situation progresses, it remains to be seen whether IVE, their agency, or Park Ji Eun will address these criticisms.
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FAQs About IVE’s “HEYA” MV Controversy
- What is the main reason behind the backlash against IVE’s “HEYA” music video?
- The backlash stems from allegations by Chinese netizens that the video incorporates traditional Chinese cultural elements, but presents them as Korean, leading to accusations of cultural appropriation.
- Has IVE or their management company responded to the controversy?
- As of the information provided, there has been no official response from IVE, their management, or the artist Park Ji Eun regarding the backlash.
- Who is Park Ji Eun?
- Park Ji Eun is the artist who created the 2D drawings, concept art, and some visuals for IVE’s “HEYA” music video.
- Where has the controversy been most fervent?
- The controversy has been particularly fervent on the Chinese social media platform Weibo, where many netizens have expressed their dissatisfaction and accused the music video of cultural theft.
Conclusion
The debate surrounding IVE’s “HEYA” music video highlights the sensitive nature of cultural representation in the global entertainment industry. While the intention may have been to celebrate traditional Korean culture, the perceived overlap with Chinese cultural motifs has led to a significant backlash. The situation emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity and awareness, especially when traditional elements are being showcased on an international stage. The growing discussion on platforms like Weibo underscores the ongoing conversation about cultural identity and appropriation in the arts.