Industry officials criticize Le Sserafim's debut after latest Melon rankings + media liken their debut to "cold noodles"
Article: Le Sserafim = Pyeongyang naengmyeon (cold noodles)?.. 4th gen girl group with "mild" taste
Source: YTN
Various reactions are pouring in over Le Sserafim's debut.
The group made their debut on the 2nd and began full fledged activities with a media and fan showcase. However, the group's results are being considered "weak."
According to Melon, the largest music site in Korea, Le Sserafim debuted at #53 and dropped to #84. The next day, around 5pm on the 3rd, they got pushed out of the Top 100 chart. In addition, they weren't able to rank on other charts like Genie. They were only able to reach #3 on Bugs.
While the group is enjoying popularity with 170,000 in debut album sales and over 20 million views for 'Fearless' MV, their appears to be strange phenomenon with regards to reactions in media vs. charts.
Reactions from critics and the public are also different. First off, while their "racing car" concept photos depicted a strong fearless group and their tennis and high heels photos garnered hot reactions, they also caused controversy over sexualization of minors.
Also, reactions to their debut song 'Fearless' appear to be consistent criticizing the song as "too simple" and "more boring than expected." The public's general opinion currently circulating is that the song is "bland" even after listening several times.
This is HYBE's first girl group so why can't they keep up on the charts?
Regarding this, a music industry official stated, "It's true their debut song is a bit unfamiliar when you first listen to it but it's a song that does leave an impression because it's different from other girl groups. Unlike idol songs that are generally addictive with a "hook", 'Fearless' is centered on various melody lines on minor chords so it gives an honest and chic feeling throughout the song."
Another official stated, "It's true the group's various controversies prior to debut were a huge influence in their popularity as they became a hot topic. But this also made it difficult for the public to consume the song with a peace of mind. That's why they're not able to use that power to influence the charts."
However, Le Sserafim is a group that has only just taken its first steps. Perhaps they're desperately realizing the "high wall" of the industry right now.
Will HYBE's first girl group get frustrated by this "high hurdle" or overcome it "fearlessly?"
