LE SSERAFIM has made a striking return with their fourth mini-album, showcasing a unique lightning-based concept in the “Chasing Lightning” trailer. The video features the group engaging in surreal actions, embodying the “CRAZY” concept through bold visuals and a techno soundtrack. Despite some criticism and accusations of plagiarism, LE SSERAFIM’s concept remains distinct and innovative, with their agency taking legal action against baseless claims.
LE SSERAFIM Returning with a New Concept
The girl group LE SSERAFIM is making a comeback with their fourth mini-album. On August 13th, LE SSERAFIM (Kim Chaewon, Sakura, Huh Yunjin, Kazuha, and Hong Eunchae) released the trailer “Chasing Lightning” for their upcoming album “CRAZY” on HYBE Labels’ YouTube channel and Source Music’s official social media platforms. Following the previously revealed “CRAZY” logo motion, lightning once again appears as a significant element in this album trailer.
The Unique Concept of Lightning
In the early scenes of the trailer, LE SSERAFIM members engage in slightly surreal actions in ordinary settings. On a sunny day, they walk their dogs under umbrellas, encounter a quarreling couple but continue on their way unbothered. They dance with deflated balloon figures, listen to music alone on a rooftop, or stroll leisurely through a bustling alley. There is no particular reason behind these actions; LE SSERAFIM simply follows their desires at their own pace and in their own way. Hong Eunchae, who has always wanted to fly, decides to act on this wish. As she opens an umbrella and jumps, she soars into the sky, with lightning striking behind her.
LE SSERAFIM and the Concept of “CRAZY” with Lightning
The atmosphere of the video dramatically shifts at the moment of the lightning strike. LE SSERAFIM and the world around them become the embodiment of “CRAZY.” The five members walk a runway against a backdrop of flashing lightning, joined by voguing dancers and local residents who strike poses in sync with the lightning flashes. The previously calm background music transitions to a techno style, and a powerful narration, “You can’t change the weather / So let’s chase the lightning” and “We can dance under the lightning,” adds an exhilarating thrill.
Community Reactions and Criticism of LE SSERAFIM
This trailer cleverly conveys the message of the new album, “Let’s go crazy with LE SSERAFIM,” raising expectations for the release. The runway concept, which left a strong impression in the trailers for “FEARLESS,” “ANTIFRAGILE,” and “EASY,” makes a return, capturing attention once again. When this news was shared on the Korean community site theqoo, the reactions were largely positive. Many praised the concept for being unique, stylish, and hip. Some commented that the overall vibe has a ’90s feel, with retro colors. Sakura received particular praise for fitting this concept well.
LE SSERAFIM Facing Ongoing Criticism
However, there were also many who disparaged the trailer, claiming it resembled aespa’s “Supernova.” Since theqoo has many NewJeans fans, some people criticize LE SSERAFIM unconditionally. These individuals seem eager to find any fault. They baselessly accuse LE SSERAFIM of plagiarizing aespa. However, aespa’s concept is about the future, while LE SSERAFIM’s concept focuses on the past. The concepts are entirely different. LE SSERAFIM’s trailer evokes the feeling of ’80s and ’90s American sci-fi genres. Accusing LE SSERAFIM of plagiarism in this context is simply unreasonable.
LE SSERAFIM Responding to Unjust Criticism
LE SSERAFIM has repeatedly faced unjust criticism, including accusations of pro-Japanese sentiment. Fortunately, their agency, Source Music, is taking legal action against these claims. Legal proceedings may take several months, but those who are currently posting malicious comments will eventually face the judgment of the law.
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Le Sserafim always has the most creative and interesting comeback trailers. As expected, this one was a whole emotional roller coaster. I can’t wait for this comeback!