Former After School member Gahee has released a new CCM song, and online debate is raging over the performance in the music video.
On June 29, the Christian content channel "Deureobolkka" released the music video for "Psalm 24 King of Glory" featuring Gahee.
The song is a CCM produced as part of the "Psalm 150 Project," which reinterprets the biblical psalms into contemporary music. K-pop producer Nam Hyung-kwan and singer-songwriter ZHMI participated in composing, and singer-songwriter Ahn Yeon-jae wrote the lyrics.
In a previous interview, Gahee said she hoped the music would be something that people without faith and younger listeners could approach without burden and noted she wanted it to become a natural channel for spreading the gospel, explaining her reasons for participating. She thus also showed sincerity about her faith.
But after its release, the performance drew more attention than the music. In the video, Gahee took the stage wearing a crop top and performed synchronized choreography with dance crews. Movements that popped the chest or used the hips, and dynamic performances reminiscent of K-pop stages drew attention.
Reactions were mixed. Some netizens said, "Was this choreography really necessary for a song praising God?", "It doesn't seem to fit the CCM atmosphere," and "The choreography draws the eye more than the song," even expressing discomfort by calling it a "misstep."
On the other hand, many viewed it positively as a fresh attempt that broke the existing CCM mold, saying, "It could make it easier for younger generations to approach," and "Praise can be expressed in various ways."
Gahee debuted in 2009 as leader of After School and was loved for her powerful performances. Recently she has continued activities rooted in her faith, operating a dance academy, appearing on Christian broadcasts, and engaging in sponsorship activities.
[Photo] 'SNS'
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