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K-pop girl group IVE’s upcoming single “BANG BANG” has reportedly failed KBS’s pre-broadcast review, temporarily barring the track from airing on the network’s television and radio platforms.
[INFO] @IVEstarship pre-release track 'BANG BANG' is BANNED by KBS Broadcast standard.
— IVE Charts (@chartsive) January 21, 2026
The song contains EXPLICIT lyrics. 👀#JANGWONYOUNG, Hwang Yubin, Seo Jieum & Exy (WJSN) are the lyricist. #IVE #아이브 pic.twitter.com/iJtne32Qcm
IVE's upcoming single, Bang Bang, was banned by KBS broadcasting standards, due to explicit lyrics.
— About Music (@AboutMusicYT) January 21, 2026
Wonyoung and WJSN's Exy are among the songwrites of the song. pic.twitter.com/7LSQFCIV0l
𝘾𝙊𝙈𝙄𝙉𝙂 𝙎𝙊𝙊𝙉https://t.co/JakEJl6Wxo#IVE #아이브 #LEESEO #이서 pic.twitter.com/tVmqtfKm9R
— IVE OFFICIAL (@IVEstarship) January 21, 2026
According to industry sources, the song did not meet KBS’s content standards due to sections of lyrics containing profanity, slang, and expressions deemed inappropriate for public broadcast.
The decision marks the first time IVE has faced a broadcast restriction since debut, drawing attention as the group prepares for their February comeback. KBS routinely conducts lyric and content examinations ahead of promotional cycles, and songs that fail the review must be edited or resubmitted for approval before they can be performed on network music shows.

“BANG BANG” has already gained pre-release buzz for its edgier sonic direction, signaling a more mature concept for the group. Notably, member Jang Wonyoung participated in lyric writing for the first time on this track, collaborating with established writers including WJSN’s Exy. Her creative debut has been widely praised by fans, adding further spotlight to the release.


Fan communities have responded with mixed emotions disappointment over the broadcast ban but growing excitement for the song’s bold style. Many view the restriction as evidence of IVE’s artistic growth as the group transitions into a more adult image, particularly as youngest member Leeseo has now reached adulthood.
Music industry observers note that broadcast bans have historically fueled anticipation for K-pop releases, citing past cases where restricted tracks later achieved commercial success after modified versions were approved.
Starship Entertainment has not yet confirmed whether an edited version will be submitted for re-evaluation, but promotions for IVE’s February album remain on schedule
Read also: IVE’s Leeseo Celebrates Graduation from Prestigious Hanlim Multi Art School
