HYUKOH faces controversy over Sakura Ando casting

South Korean indie band HYUKOH is facing backlash following the release of their new single ‘GODSPEED!’ and its accompanying music video. The controversy stems from the casting of acclaimed Japanese actress Sakura Ando as the lead in the video.

Critics in South Korea have raised concerns regarding Ando’s lineage, noting that her great-grandfather, Tsuyoshi Inukai, served as the 29th Prime Minister of Japan during the period of Japanese colonial rule. Inukai has been criticized for imperialist writings that viewed Koreans as subjects to be guided and utilized by Japan. The timing of the release, occurring just three days after Korea’s Liberation Day (Gwangbokjeol), has further intensified the debate.

While some netizens have questioned the band’s historical awareness, others argue that it is unfair to hold Ando personally responsible for the actions or ideologies of her ancestors, noting that she has made no controversial statements regarding colonial history herself. HYUKOH’s management stated that Ando was selected for her exceptional acting skills and ability to provide a cinematic, immersive quality to the video.