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| Members of K-pop girl group H1-KEY perform "Athletic Girl" during an online press event Wednesday. Courtesy of Grandline Group (GLG) |
By Dong Sun-hwa
K-pop girl group H1-KEY faced a big hurdle even before making its official debut.
When its management company Grandline Group (GLG) unveiled the group's Thai member Sitala in November, numerous K-pop fans in Thailand called for her removal, as her late father Tua Saranyu was known as a supporter of the country's military dictatorship. They insisted that it was unfair for Sitala to debut as a K-pop star, whereas the dreams of countless Thai children have been shattered due to the dictatorship.
GLG, however, did not expel Sitala from H1-KEY.
"We cannot hold Sitala liable for what her father did in the past, as his actions were beyond her responsibility," the company said in a statement released Dec. 8. "Sitala is a polite and hardworking person, whose goal is to enhance Thailand's national prestige. Please support her so that she can do something for her country."
During an online press conference Wednesday, which was held to signal the four-piece act's debut, Sitala delivered her thoughts over the controversy.
"I want to emphasize that I do not have any political belief right now," she said in a trembling voice. "In the past, I was not clearly aware of what was happening in my country because I was too young. I just hope that people with different perspectives live together in peace in Thailand."
Then, the members of H1-KEY moved on to talk about their debut single, "Athletic Girl," a hip-hop tune highlighting the group's confidence and vitality.
"It is a song that speaks for us, which emphasizes the significance of inner power," leader Seoii explained. "Since it is our first release, we tried our best to convey our message sincerely."
Riina elaborated, "We believe we can be fearless and confident only if we have strong and bright energy inside us."
To put emphasis on the theme of health and vitality, H1-KEY included a series of distinctive movements in its choreography. Sometimes, the singers flex their arm muscles while dancing, and sometimes they do squats.
"Through these movements, we tried to show that we have both healthy mind and body," member Yel said.
The quartet closed the session by disclosing what they want to achieve this time.
"We hope we can display our unique charm and color to the public," Riina said. "It will also be great if we can cheer people up with our bright energy."
