Fans Defend TWICE’s MiSaMo Against K-netizens’ Criticism Over Alleged Sexual Choreography Complaints

On October 27, 2024, MiSaMo, the subunit of popular K-pop group TWICE, unveiled the official music video for their new single, “Identity.”This trio, consisting of Mina, Sana, and Momo, who are all from TWICE’s Japanese lineup, made their debut in 2023 with the EP titled “Masterpiece.”

Their latest track, “Identity,”has attracted 3.1 million views on YouTube, yet it has faced backlash from K-pop fans in Korea and China for what some perceive as sexualized elements within the music video.

Critics argue that the choreography includes a segment that is disrespectful to women. This particular part, lasting a mere three seconds, features Mina, Sana, and Momo lying on the ground and sliding between the legs of male dancers.

Reports indicate that a portion of the fanbase organized protests, including sending trucks to JYP Entertainment, calling for the removal of the controversial choreography from the music video. The messages displayed on the protest trucks included:

• “Abolish MiSaMo’s inappropriate sexual choreography”
• “Edit the choreography at once to safeguard MiSaMo’s reputation”
• “We oppose choreography that disrespects women. Alter MiSaMo’s dance moves immediately.”

On the other side, international fans have come to MiSaMo’s defense, criticizing the protesting factions. One user on X commented:

“They are complaining about the most trivial issues.”

Global supporters have expressed their discontent with the protesters, emphasizing that the funds used for protest trucks could have been better spent addressing issues like the lack of promotional activities surrounding the new release.

“So let me get this clear. They didn’t spend money on trucks to protest the poor promotions Misamo is receiving, which has led to many fans being unaware of the new release. Yet, they sent trucks over a dance that is merely a tad bolder?”a fan reflected.

“They’re the kind of fans I wish would disappear. They act like they have the authority to dictate the actions of the artists,”another user stated.

“If you’re feeling uncomfortable after seeing five seconds of choreography, that’s not MiSaMo’s issue. It’s concerning that your attention is solely on that rather than enjoying their artistry… Plus, they are adults, you know?”another user added.

Many fans maintained that there is nothing inappropriate about the choreography and that the three TWICE members are capable adult women who have the right to express themselves artistically.

“If the choreography featured female dancers instead, you wouldn’t have a problem, would you? There’s nothing wrong with it; you should focus on more pressing concerns,”one fan noted.

“China remains inactive yet they’ll complain about anything to target the members. It’s pointless,”additional commentary from a fan read.

“The only way this choreography could be seen as disrespectful to MiSaMo or women is if they hadn’t consented to it and had their agency taken away. Thus far, there’s no evidence of that. These are successful, influential adults who maintain significant creative input over their artistry, and that should be honored,”another supporter remarked.

Discover More about TWICE’s Inaugural Subunit MiSaMo

Since their formation as a subunit in 2023, MiSaMo has launched their mini-album “Masterpiece,”which has captivated audiences with its unique synthesis of Japanese and Korean sounds. The concept embodies the distinctive characteristics of each member, contributing to a more sophisticated and mature interpretation compared to TWICE’s often bright and youthful image.

The leading single, “Do Not Touch,”has been lauded for its bold and sensual sound, appealing strongly to TWICE’s fanbase. The accompanying music video was especially recognized for its high production values, complex choreography, and striking visuals.

MiSaMo’s debut has further solidified TWICE’s foothold in the Japanese music scene, with “Masterpiece”achieving significant chart success on Oricon and making its way into Billboard Japan’s Top Albums chart.

Under the management of JYP Entertainment, TWICE is a nine-member ensemble including Nayeon, Jeongyeon, Momo, Sana, Jihyo, Mina, Dahyun, Chaeyoung, and Tzuyu. Their latest project, “READY TO BE,”has landed in the top 10 on the Billboard 200.

Additionally, TWICE has made history as the first K-pop girl group to sell out consecutive North American stadiums during their “READY TO BE”world tour, which took place from April 15, 2023, to July 28, 2024, in cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago among others.

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Image Credits: We.com