Former ADOR CEO and renowned creative director Min Hee Jin recently shed light on a controversial moment in K-pop history, revisiting her role in f(x)’s legendary “Pink Tape” music video during a talk at the ‘2024 Hyundai Card Da Vinci Motel’ event. Known for breaking conventions in K-pop, Min Hee Jin revealed her determination to keep Krystal’s paper-eating scene, despite resistance from SM Entertainment.

The event featured a 100-minute lecture under the theme “The Producer Who Breaks the Formula of K-Pop: Min Hee Jin’s Freestyle,” where Min shared her candid thoughts on creative freedom and clashing ideas within the industry.

During the lecture, she revealed that SM Entertainment had initially raised concerns about the scene where Krystal eats paper, requesting its removal due to concept issues. However, Min Hee Jin passionately fought to keep the scene intact. “SM asked me to cut the part where Krystal swallows the paper, but I was so frustrated, thinking, ‘What do they even know?’ I was so angry that I couldn’t sleep,” Min said, underlining her strong conviction.

The scene, known for its subtle sensuality within the quirky, kitschy aesthetic of “Pink Tape,” has continued to spark intrigue and conversation since its release. Fans and critics alike have dissected its meaning, with some praising its unique artistic quality while others found it puzzling or even controversial.

Mixed Reactions from Korean Netizens

The revelation has reignited discussions among K-pop fans and netizens, with varying interpretations on online forums. Some fans appreciated the bold artistic direction, while others raised concerns about its deeper implications:

• “Honestly, I didn’t think it was intentional. It was more like, ‘Why is she eating that? But it looks pretty.’”
• “Min Hee Jin definitely knows how to use sexual codes, especially in a way that flirts with uncomfortable aspects. Since the producer is a woman and it caters to female tastes, it seems like it gets less scrutiny.”
• “SM did a good job handling this situation.”
• “This has been debated for a while, and now critics are being brushed off as having dirty minds? And Krystal was a minor at the time?”

The delicate nature of the scene, especially considering Krystal’s age at the time, has raised eyebrows, with some netizens connecting Min Hee Jin’s aesthetic choices in “Pink Tape” to her more recent work with NewJeans and their controversial track “Cookie.” Others, however, viewed the scene as harmless and creative, a refreshing departure from typical K-pop visuals.

• “I loved that scene. After watching half-naked people shaking their butts, it was refreshing.”
• “If you interpreted it weirdly, blame yourself for having such a strange interpretation.”

Artistic Freedom vs. Controversy

Min Hee Jin’s approach to visuals and concepts has often walked the fine line between art and controversy. Her distinct style, which frequently incorporates bold and thought-provoking imagery, has made her a standout figure in the K-pop industry. In her case, the clash with SM over Krystal’s paper-eating scene reflects the ongoing tension between artistic freedom and corporate concerns over marketability and public perception.

As K-pop evolves, so too do the debates over the messages and visuals portrayed in music videos. The fact that the “Pink Tape” music video continues to be discussed over a decade later speaks to the lasting impact of f(x)’s unique artistry, and the role Min Hee Jin played in shaping it.

In the end, the scene remained in the final cut of “Pink Tape,” contributing to the video’s legendary status and the ongoing intrigue surrounding f(x)’s legacy. Min Hee Jin’s insistence on preserving her creative vision demonstrates the passion and risk-taking behind some of K-pop’s most memorable moments.