Baby DONT Cry enters K-pop scene with bold image, big-name backing, early backlash

K-pop girl group Baby DONT Cry performs "F Girl" at a media showcase for the group's debut at Blue Square in Seoul's Yongsan District, Monday. Yonhap

What happens when PSY, the iconic "Gangnam Style" songster, launches his first K-pop girl group, with music produced by i-dle's hitmaker Soyeon?

That question took a step toward an answer Monday, as rookie girl group Baby DONT Cry officially debuted through a media showcase at Blue Square in Yongsan District, Seoul.

The four-piece act is the first girl group to be launched under P Nation, the agency led by Psy and home to artists like Hwasa, Heize and Crush.

Comprising two Korean members, Yihyun and Beni, and two Japanese members, Kumi and Mia, the group said it sets itself apart with a bold and mischievous attitude that breaks from the conventional image of most K-pop girl groups.

Leader Yihyun, visibly nervous but firm in tone, explained the meaning behind the group's name.

"The 'baby' in our name isn't about being fragile," said Yihyun. "It stands for innocence, but also strength. We're not someone you need to protect. We represent our own pure and confident image."

Kumi added her own perspective in her still-developing Korean. "We're like popping candy. Sweet and cute, but strong and full of spark."

Members of K-pop girl group Baby DONT Cry perform at a media showcase for the group's debut at Blue Square in Seoul's Yongsan District, Monday. Yonhap

According to the members, the debut track "F Girl" delivers a defiant message about refusing to be judged by grades, scores or outside expectations — all while keeping a playful edge.

"It's about asking people to respect us for who we are," Beni said. "And we say it with conviction."

"We all screamed with pure joy when we first heard it," Yihyun added with a laugh.

The group's entire debut process was overseen by none other than Soyeon of i-dle, who remains an active member of her own group.

"It felt like a dream to work with her," Beni recalled. "I've always admired her performances, so I couldn't believe we got to work with her from the very beginning. There's so much to learn from her as a senior artist."

PSY, the head of the label, also gave his full support to the group's debut.

Mia recalled his advice: "He told us that performing should be something you genuinely enjoy, and that your energy should lift the audience. We might not be PSY himself, but we'll do our best to bring energy to others in our own way."

The album also includes pre-released track "Bet You'll Regret It," offering a wider glimpse into the rookie group's musical potential.

From left, members of K-pop girl group Baby DONT Cry Kumi, Mia, Beni and Yihyun perform at a media showcase for the group's debut at Blue Square in Seoul's Yongsan District, Monday. Yonhap

Despite the high-profile support, Baby DONT Cry's debut wasn't without bumps.

A teaser video for "F Girl," released Friday, sparked backlash over imagery that some viewers said carried sexual connotations — including a shot of a candy wrapper that appeared at first to be a condom wrapper, as well as the use of cherries to symbolize the band, plus the song's potentially provocative name. The criticism grew sharper given that all four members are minors.

On Sunday, the agency issued a public apology, saying it was "aware of the concerns raised by some fans and the public" and offered "sincere apologies to anyone who felt uncomfortable or concerned." The company added that the controversial scenes had been removed from the final music video.

When asked about the controversy at Monday's press event, the members refrained from commenting. Veteran emcee Park Kyeong-rim stepped in, asking reporters to refer to the official statement.

Yihyun acknowledged the weight indirectly, saying, "It would be a lie to say there wasn't any pressure."

"It's an honor to have the support of such respected seniors, but it also comes with responsibility. We'll do our best so our efforts haven't been in vain," she added.

The team has already set a clear goal — winning a rookie award — the one chance any K-pop act gets to be recognized as the best newcomer.

"That's our biggest dream," Yihyun said.

"Each of us has a totally different charm. I think people will find healing in the way we show all those different sides," Beni added.

Members of K-pop girl group Baby DONT Cry pose during a media showcase at Blue Square in Seoul's Yongsan District, Monday. Yonhap