Seo Ive Reveals Feelings on 'Malatanghulu' Phenomenon and Global Popularity

Singer Seo Ive has shared her thoughts on the immense success of her song 'Malatanghulu.'

A video uploaded on the 'One Mic' YouTube channel on the 9th, titled "171cm Tall Entering Middle School... The Life After Going Viral with 'Malatanghulu'," featured the young artist discussing her hit.

Seo Ive expressed her surprise at the song's explosive popularity, stating, "I uploaded it, and after four days, the views surpassed one million. Many other creators participated in challenges, and friends my age also did the challenges, leading to over a million views. I thought, 'What is this?'"

She continued, "I never expected to gain so many followers and fans. It felt novel and wonderful." Regarding her music royalties, she mentioned, "My parents manage the income. They opened a separate bank account for me, which I can only access after turning 19."

Addressing negative comments, Seo Ive admitted, "I received many comments like 'Seo Ive, how long are you going to milk 'Malatanghulu'?' and 'Stop appearing on my algorithm, you're showing up too much.'" However, she added, "I tend to think positively, seeing it as people paying a lot of attention to me. So, I've never felt burdened." Her parents also reassure her, saying, "They worry, but tell me not to mind them. I don't mind them anyway."

She also expressed gratitude for her parents' active support. "My parents follow me around like managers. I imagine it's tiring for them. They worry and care for me a lot, telling me I can rest if I'm tired, but I love it so much that I insist, 'No, I have to keep going.'"

Speaking about the recent 'Say Yes' Malatanghulu version charting in Cambodia and Taiwan, Seo Ive noted, "'Malatanghulu' was huge in Taiwan too, not just Korea, so people recognized me." She recalled her collaboration with actress Lee Ok-sae in Taiwan, including interviews, radio shows, and variety programs.

Seo Ive concluded by vowing, "I will strive to create fun and laughter-inducing challenge content. I hope you'll show a lot of love for 'Say Yes.' We are working hard in each country, so please show us your support. I will continue to work hard to become a great Seo Ive."

Seo Ive, daughter of model and broadcaster Lee Pa-ni, is a child creator active on platforms like TikTok. She began her creator career in 2017 and gained significant attention with 'Malatanghulu,' appearing on terrestrial music shows at the young age of 11.

Korean netizens reacted enthusiastically to the 'Malatanghulu' phenomenon, commenting, "Challenges truly require natural talent," and "I found myself singing along to Seo Ive's song without even realizing it!" Many also praised her maturity, noting, "It's great that she doesn't let negative comments get to her, her mindset is top-notch!"