Kangnam's J-Pop Cover Project Draws Backlash Over Japanese Versions, Korean Netizens Express Dismay

The project features several prominent artists:
First: Taeyeon (태연) - “Dinner Song”
Second: HANRORO - “A Cruel Angel's Thesis”
Third: AKMU's Lee Su-hyun (이수현) - “Blue Lagoon”

Notably, “Blue Lagoon” was also released in a Japanese version. However, the involvement of actor Heo Young’s (허영) great-grandfather, who was previously embroiled in pro-Japanese controversies, has led to calls for a boycott of related Japanese activities among Korean netizens.

Below are translated comments from Korean online communities:

1. Isn't this supposed to be Korea-Japan exchange? Why aren't the Japanese doing anything?
2. It doesn't feel like a Korea-Japan exchange; it just feels like Japan is unilaterally benefiting.
3. In my opinion, this project is a failure. They say it's for Korea-Japan exchange, but Japan's reaction is always, 'The original is still the best.' What's the point then? I feel bad for the artists.

4. I don't know why they're doing this.
5. Isn't this the result of him getting good feedback for singing Japanese songs before? Isn't it being consumed well?
6. Why are they doing this? The covers don't even sound good.

7. Exactly ㅠㅠㅠ What kind of exchange is this ㅠㅠㅠ It only benefits the original composers, lyricists, and singers.
8. I thought it ended after Taeyeon, I don't know why they're continuing...
9. ㅋㅋㅋ Is it enough to just avoid releasing it on Liberation Day? Honestly ㅋㅋㅋ At least have some conscience and avoid releasing it in early March and mid-August?