IU Sparks Massive Disappointment With Recent Release
IU, one of Korea’s most beloved and consistent artists, has been the center of criticism following the release of her latest project, Kkot Galpi 3, an album filled with remakes of iconic Korean songs.
The title track, a rearranged version of BooHwal’s legendary song “Never Ending Story,” was expected to generate nostalgia and fresh emotional impact. However, the release has been met with widespread disappointment, especially from longtime fans.
View this post on Instagram
The song, known for its soaring vocals and emotional weight, was reimagined with a softer touch. IU’s version replaced the powerful rock instrumentation of the original with a piano and string-based arrangement, aiming for a dreamlike and cinematic atmosphere.
IU's New Album: A Timely Tribute to Her 'Little Women' Character
• IU's new remake album, ''Kkot-Galpi 3" is releasing on the 27th, featuring six songs with a retro concept reminiscent of her character Geum-myeong from the drama "When Life Gives You Tangerines."
• The album's… pic.twitter.com/3EVITemmff
— Filipe (@filipe910910) May 23, 2025
Alongside the track, a music video starring rising actor Heo Nam Jun was released, drawing inspiration from the 1998 film Christmas in August.
Despite the artistic direction, many feel the remake failed to capture the heart of the original. A post about the song and music video went viral on Korean forum TheQoo, garnering over 25,000 views and hundreds of comments, most expressing disappointment. For an artist known for her emotive delivery and musical sensitivity, such a response is rare and striking.
- “It feels more like a cover than an official remake release ㅠㅠ A bit disappointing, but the music video was nice.”
- “The original is such a legendary, untouchable song that this version does feel a bit underwhelming.”
- “This is the first time I’ve ever disliked an IU song, but I think it’s because the original was just that good. The more I listen, the more I compare the two, and this one just doesn’t resonate with me ㅠ It honestly feels like a YouTube cover…”
- “Why did she choose this song…? It honestly just sounds like a Lee Seung Chul cover. To be honest, I didn’t think it suited IU from the moment it was announced. Wouldn’t one of the B-sides have been better?”
- “There’s no emotional build-up like in the lyrics… Maybe it’s because there’s no strength or power in her voice?”
- “Hmm… the song choice is kind of disappointing.”
