KISS OF LIFE dropped from KCON LA 2025 just five days after being announced, and users and fans are pointing to a moment that caused major backlash. On April 2, 2025, the quartet threw a birthday livestream for member Julie, wearing old-school hip-hop fashion in all the wrong ways. The moment caused controversy, with fans calling them out for promoting stereotypes and cultural appropriation.
[NOTICE]
Dear KCONers,Thank you for your continued interest and support for KCON LA 2025.
Regrettably, after careful consideration and thorough discussions exploring all avenues for participation, KCON and S2 Entertainment have mutually decided that KISS OF LIFE will no… pic.twitter.com/ddXDODamXU
— KCON USA (@kconusa) May 16, 2025
On May 16, KCON LA and S2 Entertainment released a joint statement saying the group would no longer perform, citing a “mutual decision.” But fans weren’t buying the vague explanation. The livestream featured stereotypical portrayals of Black culture, including braided hairstyles and exaggerated mannerisms. One member even used the parody rap name “Lil Taco,” which many felt crossed a line.
KISS OF LIFE issues a handwritten apology regarding Julie's birthday livestream. pic.twitter.com/Zu6iWZZ65S
— Kpop Charts (@kchartsmaster) April 5, 2025
Though S2 apologized on May 4 and the members followed with handwritten letters on May 6, many fans still felt the response lacked depth. KISS OF LIFE’s removal feels like a sign that global fans are demanding real accountability. KCON LA will still happen from August 1 to 3, with groups like P1Harmony, NCT127, ZEROBASEONE, aespa, NMIXX, and RIIZE. And while fans are doubting the reasons behind KISS OF LIFE’s cancellation, one thing’s for sure: their birthday livestream is stil raising eyebrows.
