One move even shocked the group’s own member.
Choreographies can often make or break K-Pop releases, that’s just how important of a factor they are to the industry. As such, they often get scrutinised by TV broadcast rule makers to make sure they don’t “cross the line.” When they are deemed to do so, it leads to broadcasters and agencies to step in by either banning certain moves or altering them.
Here are five choreographies that were considered too much for Korean television.
1. AOA’s “Miniskirt”
Upon releasing “Miniskirt,” AOA included a sexy unzip move and floor-lying gestures that sparked controversy.
FNC Entertainment responded quickly merely days later they confirmed they had changed “lying on the floor and unzipping choreography” into a more “innocent sexy” version for broadcast stages.
2. TWICE Nayeon’s “ABCD”
Nayeon’s solo “ABCD” video includes a bold “crotch-grab” while being lifted by her backup dancers. Members of TWICE were visibly stunned… Jihyo even exclaimed, “Our company can do this?”
As such the move was seemingly cut from televised music show performances due to broadcast censorship.
3. Red Velvet’s “Ice Cream Cake”
Red Velvet’s playful concept took an unexpected turn during Irene’s rap part, in which the members sat around her on the floor.
For TV performances, this floor choreography was deemed too suggestive and removed entirely.
4. i-dle Minnie’s “HER”
Minnie’s solo debut “HER” featured seductive choreography with lace blindfolds and intense gestures. During one of her performances on M Countdown, the screen briefly showed a 15+ logo.
Meanwhile, on KBS’s Music Bank, the blindfold part was completely cut off.
5. Sunmi’s “Full Moon”
Sunmi’s “Full Moon” originally showcased hip-thrusting moves and floor routines that were overtly sensual.
Broadcasters asked her to tone these gestures down — replacing hip rolls with squats and revising floor interactions to make the performance suitable for broadcast.
