KISS OF LIFE’s Julie Apologizes For Saying Racial Slur After Fan’s Callout Goes Viral

Julie, member of the rising K-Pop group KISS OF LIFE, has issued an apology following the controversy that arose from a recently resurfaced video clip on social media. The clip, dating back to Julie’s time with YG Entertainment, shows her using a racial slur during a rap cover.

The video had been largely forgotten until recently, but with Julie’s debut it has come back into focus. Social media platforms have seen a surge in attention to the video, especially on Twitter, with many users sharing and condemning the idol’s cover.

JULIE SAYING THE N WORD? OH ITS BAAAAD https://t.co/phwoTuUKu7 pic.twitter.com/BhZt8MbpPV

— PAIGE (@HWlSE0) December 13, 2022

The controversy escalated during a live performance by KISS OF LIFE on ARIRANG‘s show, Simply K-Pop. The group was delivering their usual top-notch performance, showcasing their talents and the unique concept that has helped them gain attention in the K-Pop scene. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the show has been live-streamed, allowing fans to watch from home.

During one of the closing scenes, as the camera moved among the members of the group doing their ending fairies, an audience member could be clearly heard asking Julie to apologize for her use of the racial slur. This unexpected moment caught the attention of many viewers and seemingly helped bring the issue into the spotlight.

Julie, apologize for the ‘N-word’ thing.

— Fan watching KISS OF LIFE’s performance

‘julie apologise for the n word thing’ whilst another member is doing aegyo SOO UNSERIOUS pic.twitter.com/aygEkKsjj9

— k ❀*•ˊ???? | stayc cb !! (@siyoonluvr) July 10, 2023

Following the incident, Julie posted an apology on KISS OF LIFE’s official Twitter account. She acknowledged her past mistake, stating, “An old video has resurfaced in which I, without paying enough attention, sang the original lyrics of a cover song that included a certain word, for which I deeply regret.”

In her apology, Julie explained that this incident made her realize the harm her careless actions could cause. She also emphasized that she had learned and matured during her six-year training period. The idol then made a commitment to avoid making the same mistakes in the future, promising to be more cautious and careful.

I want to express my sincere apologies to everyone who may have been hurt by my actions. I will strive to show you a better version of myself and continuous growth in the future.

— KISS OF LIFE’s Julie

This is JULIE from KISS OF LIFE.

An old video has resurfaced in which I, without paying enough attention, sang the original lyrics of a cover song that included a certain word, for which I deeply regret.
This incident made me realize how my careless actions can cause harm to…

— KISS OF LIFE (@KISSOFLIFE_S2) July 22, 2023

As a rising star in the K-Pop industry, Julie’s recognition of her past mistake and subsequent apology has generated a lot of discussion among fans and the broader public, serving as a reminder about the importance of cultural sensitivity and respect in the music industry.