Amid criticisms over their "lame" group name, the septet BABYMONSTER explained the significant meaning behind it.
On April 1, YG Entertainment's rookie girl group BABYMONSTER faced the K-media for an interview in line with the release of their first mini album, "BABYMONS7ER."
The presscon was held at their label's new headquarters in Hapjeong-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul. There, they answered questions regarding their official debut, album release, and plan and aspiration.
BABYMONSTER Meaning, Concept Explained
Launched by YG Entertainment, BABYMONSTER debuted seven years after global artist BLACKPINK. Since the expectation for them is high, their name drew mixed reactions at first due to their supposedly "lame" sound.
However, the members emphasized the significant meaning behind it, which also embodies the concept of the group.
Comprised of teammates who are in their teens, the word "Baby" refers to their young ages while the "Monster" depicts them having "monster-like" skills.
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Ruka emphasized:
"We are a group that shows our playful side like a baby off stage and unleashes our cool and charismatic side like a monster when we are practicing or when we are on stage. Since the age group is young overall, we want to show a lot of teen-like charm."
Initially, that was the main meaning, but member Asa further explained:
"The word 'Baby' doesn't fully refer to our age, but rather, the concept of kids with 'YG DNA.' We want to be active as BABYMONSTER even when we get older and show our colors for a long time."
BAEMON then explained the "YG DNA" they are referring to and said:
"I think BABYMONSTER is a group full of 'YG DNA.' 'YG DNA' is hip-hop, and BABYMONSTER is also 'teen.' So, I think the potential for development is endless. That’s our charm."
Ahyeon continued:
"I think the seven different voices are harmonized and each one exudes uniqueness. I think true hip-hop is being able to freely express and create music while having that 'YG DNA'."
How Did Members React After Hearing BABYMONSTER As Their Group Name?
In the interview, the members also revealed what it felt like hearing the team name for the first time.
BAEMON said that they like its "intensity" and Asa said:
"We thought it was a good match for us. There is an unexpected charm that changes from 'baby' to 'monster'. I think I can be playful and lovely when I'm a 'baby,' and I think I can show my skills when I'm a 'monster'."
Ahyeon replied:
"BABYMONSTER is written on the door of our practice room. I've never thought of another name because it has a deep narrative. It's a name that I was satisfied with."
(Photo : News1)
Rami also smiled, saying:
"I think I heard the meaning of the team name and thought it was just right for us."
Meanwhile, BABYMONSTER released its self-titled first mini-album. Previously, they made their pre-debut with the release of their single "Batter Up" in November last year. Ahyeon, who was not able to be with them due to health problems at the time, started promoting them as a whole group.
READ MORE: BABYMONSTER 'SHEESH' MV Teaser Draws Comparison to BLACKPINK Lisa Solo 'LALISA'
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Written by Eunice Dela Cruz
