Broadcast Censorship Continues to Plague K-Pop Music Videos
In a recent development, BLACKPINK’s Jennie has faced a setback as her solo track “Mantra”was declared ineligible for broadcast on KBS due to mentions of specific brand names. The ruling, announced on October 23, 2024, cites a breach of Article 46 of the Broadcasting Review Regulations, which restricts content that can be deemed as an indirect advertisement.
Brand Restrictions Impact Fresh Releases
Similarly, BABYMONSTER’s latest release, “CLIK CLAK,”has also fallen victim to KBS’s stringent broadcasting standards. The station determined that the track’s references to particular products violated the same Article 46, highlighting the ongoing trend of music censorship impacting K-pop artists.
Historical Context: Bans and Controversies
This is not the first instance of KBS banning a BLACKPINK release. Back in 2022, the music video (MV) for “PINK VENOM”was also prohibited from airing. KBS argued that the MV indirectly promoted renowned brands like Chanel and Celine through its lyrics, which sparked disappointment among fans and raised questions surrounding the fairness and clarity of KBS’s regulations.
Physical Safety Concerns and Other Censorship Instances
In another notable incident, BLACKPINK’s “Kill This Love”faced a ban due to a scene featuring Rosé driving at high speed without a seatbelt and standing in the middle of a road while a car approached her. KBS cited violations of the Road Traffic Act as grounds for the censorship, highlighting their commitment to public safety in addition to content regulation.
The Broader Impact of Broadcasting Censorship
The censorship doesn’t only affect BLACKPINK. Other artists, including BIGBANG and AKMU, have encountered similar restrictions. For instance, BIGBANG’s “Fxxk It” was prohibited because of its use of the term “yangachi,” labeled as inappropriate. Meanwhile, AKMU’s song “Galaxy” was flagged under accusations of promoting the Samsung Galaxy series, despite the term’s widespread usage.
The Debate Over Censorship Policies
While there is a necessity for censorship in broadcasting to protect audiences, many K-Pop fans express confusion and frustration over KBS’s unpredictable banning policies. From 2NE1’s “I’m Busy” to WINNER’s “Everyday,” artists are increasingly burdened by regulations that stifle artistic expression and engagement with their fans.
The Ongoing Tension Between Creators and Regulations
As K-pop continues to garner international acclaim, the ongoing tensions between artists’ creative freedoms and regulatory restrictions become increasingly apparent. The effects of these bans could potentially hinder the growth and popularity of K-pop as it strives for global relevance. Fans and industry professionals alike are calling for a reevaluation of such regulations to promote a more open environment for artistic expression.
For further insights on this topic and the specific reasons behind these bans, please refer to the full article.
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