Le Sserafim’s latest documentary draws mixed reviews

Members of K-pop girl group Le Sserafim, from left, Huh Yun-jin, Kim Chae-won, Kazuha, Sakura and Hong Eun-chae pose at the 2024 SBS Gayo Daejeon: Summer's blue carpet event  at Inspire Entertainment Resort, Yeongjong Island, Incheon, July 21. Yonhap

K-pop girl group Le Sserafim has released a documentary providing fans with an inside look at the challenges its members face as idols. While the documentary is praised for its authenticity in showcasing the dedication of the members and their struggles, it remains uncertain if the videos are enough to quell the scrutiny over their performing abilities.

On Monday, HYBE Labels, Le Sserafim’s agency, unveiled all five episodes of the documentary titled, “LE SSERAFIM — Make It Look Easy,” on its official YouTube channel.

Focusing on Le Sserafim’s journey from 2022 to its preparation for this year’s mini-album “EASY,” the documentary highlights the personal and professional challenges faced by the group’s five members — Kim Chae-won, Sakura, Huh Yun-jin, Kazuha and Hong Eun-chae — as they navigate their careers as K-pop idols.

In the documentary, a significant moment features Hong hyperventilating during a media showcase rehearsal, yet continuing with the performance immediately afterward. Hong is moved to tears by the applause from her fellow members and staff following the show.

The video also captures Kim receiving an IV drip while filming the music video for the group’s 2023 studio album “UNFORGIVEN,” along with Sakura breaking down in tears during a difficult recording session.

In the scene, Sakura voices her doubts, saying, “I don’t know why I chose to be an idol … I don’t understand why I’m doing this, suffering and crying,” which reminds viewers of the past criticisms placed on the group after its poor performance at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival at Indio, California, in April.

The documentary created quite a buzz online, with many fans expressing their support for the group. One fan commented on YouTube, “It hurts to see that the 한국을 girls struggle being happy or even content,” while another remarked, “I want the girls to understand that they’re doing absolutely more than enough for everyone who loves them.”

However, many online posts also argued that the excessive focus on Le Sserafim’s struggles and tears seemed aimed at just generating public sympathy, rather than addressing the real problem. One netizen suggested that the agency should focus more on improving the group’s skills rather than making documentaries.

“Many actors, comedians and singers in Korea have faced different issues and scandals, but many have also silenced the criticisms with pure talent … It would be much better if they improved their skills to the point where these critics have nothing to say, rather than victimizing themselves,” one online user wrote.

Le Sserafim is currently preparing for its comeback, aiming for an August release.

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