Korean netizens have taken to various platforms to express their thoughts on IU's highly anticipated comeback, shedding light on why the singer's latest release is facing a lukewarm reception compared to her previous hits.
Unfitting Song Titles and Enigmatic Lyrics
A prominent critique revolves around the perceived mismatch between the Korean audience's taste and IU's latest tracks, particularly "Shopper" and "Holssi."
Netizens argue that the lyrics are unusual, making it challenging for listeners to connect with the songs. Some even express difficulty understanding IU's singing, highlighting a gap between the artist and her audience.
Comments from Korean forums echo the sentiment:
- "I enjoy her songs and care about her, but I genuinely don't get anything about the shopper."
- "The melody is good, but no matter how many times I listen, I can't make out the lyrics."
- "The lyrics are creepy ㅜㅜㅜㅜㅜ Things like ‘don't be afraid of heights...' The lyrics of 'Shopper' are also dull."
READ ALSO : IU Shares Reason Why She Wrote 'Celebrity'
Shift in Image: From 'Little Sister' to Trendy Star
IU's transition from a beloved "little sister" figure to a cooler, more fashionable style has left some fans disenchanted. Netizens feel that IU's recent efforts to embrace a global, trendy image may not resonate well with the Korean public.
Reactions from Korean fans include:
- "It seems like IU is making a lot of effort to become fashionable, from dyeing her hair to attracting attention as a global star, but I feel like she's wearing clothes that don't suit her."
- "It feels like what IU is pursuing doesn't suit her. I feel like IU is deliberately trying to look trendy...? That feeling doesn't sit well with me."
Departure from Original Singing Style
A notable aspect of the criticism centers around IU's altered singing style. Some netizens express a preference for her raw, emotionally resonant voice heard in her earlier works, asserting that her current incorporation of vocal techniques doesn't align with their expectations.
Concerns raised by Korean netizens:
- "I wish she'd come out with something like ['Through the Night' and 'Knee'] again, but it's odd how the current songs seem to overshadow those and focus more on the flashy aspects rather than the essence of the song."
- "I feel like IU's musical direction is drifting further away from the public... Looking at the reality, most of the public seems to feel that only 'Love Wins All' hits the mark."
The Dilemma: Chasing International Fame at the Expense of Domestic Appeal
Critics speculate that IU's focus on melodies with English lyrics could be a deliberate attempt to appeal to the international market.
However, this shift raises concerns among some Korean fans who worry about losing the unique essence of IU's music that resonated with them.
Netizens express their thoughts:
- "If IU continues down this path and releases songs with unfamiliar melodies, achieving PAK (Perfect All-Kill) will certainly not be as easy as before."
- "IU probably needs to return to songs that cater to Korean tastes or find a balance between Korean and international audiences if she doesn't want to lose her momentum."
As IU navigates the challenges surrounding her recent comeback, finding a balance between global aspirations and local preferences might be the key to reclaiming her previous chart-topping success.
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Written by Cassidy Jones.
