Which Scene Got LE SSERAFIM’s “EASY” Music Video Banned On KBS?

According to the broadcast, there’s risk of imitation.

In a recent move that has sparked widespread discussion among K-Pop fans, KBS has decided to ban the broadcast of LE SSERAFIM‘s music video for their most recent title track, “EASY.” Despite the anticipation surrounding the group’s comeback, the decision had thrown a wrench into the expectations of many, raising questions about the content of the music video and its implications for the group’s promotional activities.

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| Source Music

The teaser for “EASY,” shared earlier, did little to clarify the reasons behind the ban, leaving many to speculate on what could possibly render the video ineligible for broadcast. KBS’s guidelines are known to be strict when it comes to content that could potentially encourage dangerous behaviors among viewers.

This is not the first time an artist has faced such a ban — similar restrictions have been applied in the past to content deemed to showcase or glorify actions that viewers might imitate, risking their safety.

kbs ban easy
KBS’s ban of the “EASY” music video

Now that the music video has been released, fans have started theorizing about what the scene “at fault” could be. Until now, all signs point to one seemingly innocent set.

LE SSERAFIM (르세라핌) 'EASY' OFFICIAL MV 1-47 screenshot
| HYBE LABELS/YouTube

The scene that has drawn the most attention and is believed to be the primary reason for the ban involves member Chaewon. She is depicted sitting in a bathtub, singing, when a hair dryer is dropped into the water.

LE SSERAFIM (르세라핌) 'EASY' OFFICIAL MV 1-48 screenshot
| HYBE LABELS/YouTube
LE SSERAFIM (르세라핌) 'EASY' OFFICIAL MV 1-51 screenshot
| HYBE LABELS/YouTube

This imagery probably raised alarms to KBS over its potential to “influence” viewers to engage in similarly dangerous behavior. The risk associated with mixing electricity and water is well-documented, as it can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities due to electric shock.

LE SSERAFIM (르세라핌) 'EASY' OFFICIAL MV 1-51 screenshot (1)
| HYBE LABELS/YouTube 

Despite the absence of other scenes in the music video that carry a “risk of imitation,” this single scene has been enough for KBS to deem the entire video ineligible for broadcast. The decision has led to a mix of reactions from the public.

LE SSERAFIM (르세라핌) 'EASY' OFFICIAL MV 1-52 screenshot
| HYBE LABELS/YouTube

While some netizens have criticized KBS for what they perceive as an overcautious approach, others have expressed understanding, recognizing the broadcaster’s responsibility to prevent the dissemination of potentially harmful content.

The ban has inevitably raised concerns about the impact on LE SSERAFIM’s comeback, particularly regarding their visibility on music shows and their overall success during this promotional cycle. The group’s agency and fans alike are now faced with the challenge of navigating these hurdles as they work to ensure that “EASY” reaches its audience without compromising safety or regulatory standards.

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