The girl group LISENNE is once again in the spotlight as they prepare to release a remake of KARA's hit song "Pretty Girl." The original lyrics, which include the phrase "No, No, No," have sparked renewed interest online, with some commentators suggesting that the group is confronting the ongoing controversy head-on.
LISENNE is set to unveil their version of KARA's title track from the group's second studio album on July 8.
Originally released in 2008, "Pretty Girl" became a defining anthem for KARA, featuring lyrics like "No, No, No, No" and "I like me just the way I am." The song was celebrated as a confidence-boosting anthem and is regarded as a classic hit across generations.
However, the timing of LISENNE's remake coincides with a recent controversy surrounding member Woni's use of the Gyeongsang dialect expression "Musubno," which has sparked political debate. The repeated phrase "No, No, No" in the original lyrics has also drawn attention in this context.
Notably, the positive messages in the original song, such as "walking confidently anywhere" and "I like me just the way I am," have been highlighted, with some online reactions describing the group's approach as a proper confrontation of the controversy.
One netizen commented, "This project was prepared without any relation to the controversy, but the timing is impeccable. The confident message of 'Pretty Girl' resonates with the current situation." Other reactions included remarks like, "The phrase 'No, No, No' stands out more now," and "It feels almost intentional, even if it’s coincidental. Ultimately, it seems to be the most assertive response, and the song will likely become the main topic rather than the controversy."
The controversy began when Woni casually used the Gyeongsang dialect expression "Musubno" in content. A PD from Gyeongnam MBC expressed disappointment on social media regarding the use of the "-no" expression, which led to the escalation of the debate. Following this, explanations from the Dong-A University Language Culture Institute clarified that "-no" is used in Gyeongsang dialect not only in questions but also in exclamations and monologues. The debate further intensified as political figures, including former Justice Minister Cho Kuk and Lee Jun-seok, leader of the Reform Party, shared opposing views on social media.
As the discussion continues, examples from MBC dramas and variety shows featuring the "-no" expression have resurfaced, further fueling the controversy.
Amidst this backdrop, anticipation is growing for the release of "Pretty Girl," with fans eager to see how LISENNE will reinterpret KARA's classic hit.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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