XG, interested in 'noise marketing' gained through 'anti-Korean controversy'

The representative of the group XG's agency released a statement regarding the 'anti-Korean controversy'. The controversy started with a statement by the chairman of the parent company.

There was no direct apology for the ‘anti-Korean controversy’ in the statement. XG's production background, goals, and identity constitute the main content. The attention gained through the controversy ended up being used only for ‘group promotion’.

Simon, the CEO of “A variety of multinational staff members are participating in our projects,” he said.

He continued, "Although all members of “I think you may be able to see it. Going forward, we will work harder to convey the true essence of XG by gradually showing our unique color and diversity,” he said.

Lastly, he added, "We are not conscious of any specific target as a role model or competitor, and as recently circulated as a rumor, we would like to correct the fact that there are Unplays and strategies that seek to use specific third-party branding, which is also untrue."

XG has been embroiled in an ‘anti-Korean controversy’. The agency is Xgallus, and its parent company is Avex.

Previously, Avex Chairman Masato Matsuura said of “We (Japan) are losing, but we decided to team up with a Korean producer and do it thoroughly,” he said.

The statement was made in June of last year. Immediately after the statement, an 'anti-Korean controversy' arose, but the agency kept quiet. Now, half a year later, the agency's answer was 'group promotion'. There was no direct mention of BoA, which was the issue.

Also, the lack of 'Korean lyrics' in Korean activities is given an ambiguous explanation as 'the group's color'. This is because the group's goal itself was to expand overseas. Usually, when an idol group promotes in another country, they release songs in the native language of the country they are active in.

The discomfort of domestic fans was dismissed as just ‘prejudice and regulations’ and ‘the unfamiliarity of being the first time’. This is an explanation from the head of an idol group that used the Korean stage as a stepping stone. The response was that they could not understand the needs of the fans. It was an act of lack of consideration and respect for Korean artists and fans. If Korean sentiment cannot be accepted, XG's Korean activities will only face difficulties.

Reporter Junho Yoon, Ten Asia delo410@tenasia.co.kr