KISS OF LIFE, the rising 5th-gen K-pop girl group, is facing online backlash after member Natty covered BLACKPINK’s Jennie’s song.

On September 16, KISS OF LIFE, known for their mature and empowering concept, drew attention with their latest cover.

Despite their growing fame, the group has faced criticism for being compared to BLACKPINK, with Natty, in particular, being labeled a “Lisa copy.”

Before joining KISS OF LIFE, Natty was already known to K-pop fans for participating in survival shows and attempting to join groups like TWICE and fromis_9. She debuted as a solo artist but remained relatively unknown until joining KISS OF LIFE.

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Natty, who is Thai like BLACKPINK’s Lisa, is often compared to her due to their similar backgrounds and impressive dance skills.

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Recently, Natty’s cover of “Black,” a song from G-Dragon’s album featuring Jennie, went viral but received mixed reactions. Jennie, known as the “YG Princess,” originally featured on the track before BLACKPINK’s debut.

The cover drew criticism because “Black” is an iconic song, and Natty’s rendition was scrutinized heavily. Critics pointed out that Natty’s voice lacked vibrato and uniqueness compared to Jennie’s. Some described her voice as thin and weak, with noticeable breathing and nasal sounds.

Netizens were divided, with some harshly criticizing Natty’s cover and others defending her. Fans of KISS OF LIFE argued that the cover was meant as a tribute and that the backlash was unfair.

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Lee Kyung Gyu's star-making influence goes beyond Kang Ho Dong, as Hong Jin Kyung shares how he helped her kickstart her career.

On the April 24 episode of KBS 2TV’s Problem Child in House, legendary comedian Lee Kyung Gyu appeared as a guest—and a touching story from the past was revealed.

Hong Jin Kyung surprised everyone when she said, “He’s the teacher for all of us. Personally, he’s the one who helped me debut.” She even pinned a carnation flower on his chest to show her gratitude.

Lee Kyung Gyu smiled and said, “I still remember when Hong Jin Kyung walked up the stairs onto the stage for the first time.”

Hong Jin Kyung then shared her journey to becoming a star. “I joined a supermodel contest, but only the top 3 winners were noticed in broadcasting. I got a special prize, so I had no chance to be on TV."

She continued, "At first, I was just a backup for a show. But somehow, I became a regular the next week. I never knew why."

She added, "I thought the PD gave me a shot. But then one day, I randomly met Kyung Gyu sunbae, and he told me it was actually him who recommended me.”

Kim Sook asked with a smile, “So Kyung Gyu sunbae said nice things about you to the PD?”

Lee Kyung Gyu playfully replied, “Don’t say it in such a childish way,” making everyone laugh.

He then explained more seriously, “The show was Scoop TV Entertainment, and I was pretty much the main MC. When Jin Kyung showed up, I saw her determination and passion."

He added, "While others didn’t seem serious, she really stood out. I told the PD, ‘She seems unique. Why not keep her on the show?’”

Kim Jong Kook chimed in, “So if the main MC said that, doesn’t that mean you basically got her in?”

That made Lee Kyung Gyu happy. He grinned and replied, “Exactly! You speak well. Be like him!”

He added, “After that, Jin Kyung’s career took off. She started doing shows with Lee Young Ja and just kept going.”

Fans are now calling Lee Kyung Gyu not only a top MC, but also a quiet star-maker behind the scenes!

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