Note: The English Translation of “Nxde” is referred to in this Song Highlight for convenience issues.

Soyeon sought to get rid of that with “Nxde,” now showing the quintet’s empowerment anthem. Prior to the song’s release, a quick search of the term showed inappropriate content, which, unfortunately, should come as no surprise. Rather than existing as women with never-ending expectations placed on them, (G)I-DLE took it upon themselves to show their true selves and set themselves free from societal chains, even if they get hate for it. Written, composed, and arranged by Jeon Soyeon, the inspiration for the track came from the idea to change how the word “nude” is perceived.

Released last year on October 17th, “Nxde” would take the world by storm with topics that touch on female empowerment, criticism of society’s restrictive standards, and awareness of the challenges women face because of the objectifying male gaze. This edition of Genius Korea Song Highlight aims to break down the lyrics and music video for the song to uncover its deeper meanings. At the height of Women’s History Month - a month that showcases the impactful contributions of women from around the globe - female musicians and artists in K-pop like (G)I-DLE have used their platform to speak on the injustices women face with their song “Nxde.” With straightforward and unapologetic lyrical content, the quintet demands we join them as they bring awareness to the strife we continue to face to this day and fight for women’s empowerment.

No longer should women like us live in fear at the hands of the men that try to rule over our autonomy and a misogynistic society that tries to silence our voices. We’re constantly being surveilled and censored if we are not submissive to the patriarchal world we live in, to the point where some of us are abused or killed to suppress us. From the day we are born, women are taught to promote unrealistic and unhealthy stereotypes that abide by society’s view on body image, sexuality, or self-confidence, which can sometimes be irreparable after the damage has been done.

Have men better ears than women music