《Kim Jiwon's Hidden Track》
B.I's first public event after drug controversy
30 minutes of apology "I can't think too much"
In Korea, the music response was lukewarm.
Remaining interest abroad, insensitive to controversy
B.I's first public event after drug controversy
30 minutes of apology "I can't think too much"
In Korea, the music response was lukewarm.
Remaining interest abroad, insensitive to controversy
《Kim Jiwon's Hidden Track》
Ten Asia reporter Kim Ji-won takes a closer look at the hidden stories of the music industry. We will vividly convey the facts and truth of the music industry issues.
B.I, who caused controversy over drug use charges, once again 'officially' stood in front of the public. B.I, who has been promoting music 'quietly', held a media event to commemorate the release of a new album. However, even a week after the release of the album, the public's response to his music has been lukewarm. It's an achievement that falls short of boldness.
On the 1st, B.I released their 2nd regular album 'TO DIE FOR' and held a showcase. Global EP 'Love or Loved Part' in November last year. 1' (LOL: Love or Loved) This is their comeback after 7 months since Part.1. It's been two years since 'Waterfall' (WATERFALL) in June 2021 as a regular album. Although he has been active in music during the 'self-restraint' period, he did not appear publicly at an official event until it was less than two years after he was sentenced to four years of probation for drug use.
It was belatedly known in June 2019 that B.I had purchased cannabis and LSD, a type of drug, through an acquaintance between April and May 2016 and used some of them. Due to this, he left iKON, which was his team at the time, and left YG Entertainment. Later, in October 2021, he was sentenced to 3 years in prison and 4 years probation.
During the showcase, B.I focused on 'apologizing' rather than introducing the album. Spending 30 minutes just apologizing during the one-hour showcase. B.I said, "I bow my head once again about the public's uncomfortable gaze. I also feel uncomfortable. I have never felt comfortable or lighthearted. Every time I become arrogant, I think I made a resolution to face the situation myself." He then emphasized, "It may not be welcomed for a long time. I think that is also a task to be solved. I will reflect and blame myself with a low heart, and live with a grateful heart to someone."
At the time of the incident, B.I's message, "I took drugs because I wanted to be a genius," was released, causing controversy. B.I said, "I don't think I thought about it because it was short. Since then, my thoughts on music have changed. I think everything is nothing without effort. I came to focus on hard work. I lost a lot and learned lessons. Due to wrong judgment, Nothing was gained,” he reflected.
It seems that B.I's earnest apology did not go through to the public. Many point out that it was an unreasonable publicity strategy from the very beginning of appearing in front of the public in a situation where public opinion is not good due to Yoo Ah-in's drug allegations. Although he briefly charted right after the album's release, his name could not be found on the daily and weekly charts of major music sites in Korea, such as Melon, Bugs, and Genie.
B.I was also called a 'genius artist' because he was famous for his excellent producing skills, enough to take charge of producing iKON's music until he left the group. Icon's representative song 'Love Scenario', which made even kindergarteners sing along, is also a song in which B.I participated.
B.I lost his 'sound source power' when he got out of the fence called iKON after causing controversy due to drug charges. Some say that the reason iKON was able to create hit songs was because of the name 'iKON'.
However, some overseas fandoms that are relatively insensitive to the drug issue remain. On the global music streaming platform iTunes, the double title songs 'Dare to Love' and 'Die for love' topped the top single charts in 12 regions. USA Today, a leading American daily, published an article highlighting and praising B.I and his musical activities.
Reporter Kim Ji-won, Ten Asia bella@tenasia.co.kr