Korean Professors Defends IVE Amid 'Chinese Culture Stealing' Allegations

IVE was recently accused of appropriating Chinese culture for their "HEYA" music video. Now, Korean professors have stepped up to defend the girl group.

The music video for IVE's lead single, "HEYA," was released alongside their much-awaited comeback on April 29, 2024, with the unveiling of their second mini-album, "IVE SWITCH." While fans loved the release, Chinese netizens were quick to claim the group stole Chinese culture for their music video.

Keep on reading for all the details.

IVE Accused of 'Stealing' Chinese Culture for 'HEYA' Music Video

IVE's "HEYA" music video is based off an original folk tale titled "The Tiger Who Loved the Sun," which was conceptualized by the IVE members themselves. Along with their message of self-love, the girls wanted to spread the beauty of Korean culture.

In an interview, Ahn Yujin stated that they found it absolutely important that they prepared the music videos and their outfits in a Korean style. The girl group made use of several traditional Korean elements, such as traditional fans, tobacco pipes, jeogori, and norigae. However, Chinese netizens believe these elements are not Korean but Chinese.

Soon, netizens flooded Weibo (Chinese social media) and X (formerly Twitter) to demand IVE and their company, Starship Entertainment, release a statement. Many believe they are guilty of culturally appropriating Chinese culture.

To be specific, Chinese netizens claim the overused Chinese elements, such as the fans, ink paintings, and even the knots in the members' hairs.

Amid the backlash, Korean professors have stepped up to give their two cents.

Korean Professors Defend IVE Amid Backlash for 'Appropriating' Chinese Culture

Professer Seo Kyung Duk, who teaches at Sungshin Women's University, analyzed the comments of Chinese netizens towards IVE's music video.

They noted that the reason for the backlash was their feeling of inferiority towards Koreans.

Additionally, Professor Yang Seung Hoon, who teaches sociology at Kyungnam University, commented on the situation. They noted that Korea, China, and Japan shared the same Taoist philosophy for 2000 years, meaning there are inevitable similarities in their traditional cultures.

The blame was put on China's state-run media, which created such issues and shaped public opinions.

What do you think of the situation? Tell us in the comments below!

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Written by Alexa Lopez