LE SSERAFIM are facing heavy backlash after their old song “Smart” resurfaced on X.
The track, originally released in 2024 as part of their February mini-album Easy, had already drawn controversy at the time. It was accused of plagiarizing Tyla’s hit song “Water.”
The choreography was also criticized as “inappropriate,” and some felt the outfits were too revealing.
Plagiarism, NSFW Outfits, Banned MV — Everything Deemed Wrong With LE SSERAFIM’s Comeback
Now, the song is being criticized again. Netizens have accused the members of being racist while singing it.
Many have focused on the chorus, particularly how the idols chose to pronounce the word “smarter.” Some argue that the delivery sounds like an imitation of a Nigerian accent.
This song racist asf bro 😭😭😭 https://t.co/rK0dtyRYcv
— James (@onedrland) February 15, 2026
Viral posts claim the pronunciation feels exaggerated and offensive, while others say it makes them uncomfortable when listening to the track.
tha accent imitation irritates me till this day.
— Blue 🦋 ⁸ ⁶ ⁵ ⁴ (@itzskznmixxset) February 15, 2026
the accent throws me every time omfg I can’t believe they got away with this
— James (@onedrland) February 15, 2026
I have nothing against le Sserafim but why is yunjin talking about “smata” 💔
— scroicia (@jenejibugs) February 15, 2026
The fake Nigerian accent on “smarter” killed me the first time I heard it.
— 💜 æ-mi 🐐 (@lazylavenderblu) February 16, 2026
Although “Smart” was released two years ago, the controversy surrounding it appears to have not fully died down. With the song trending again, debate over its lyrics and delivery has reignited across social media.
