MOMOLAND Wrap Me In Plastic: The Untold Story Behind The Viral Hit

"Momoland wrap me in plastic" became an unexpected viral sensation when the K-pop group collaborated with CHROMANCE for their English single. Released on February 5, 2021, this catchy track quickly captured global attention with its distinctive chorus and memorable lyrics like "wrap me in plastic and make me shine".

Furthermore, this collaboration between MOMOLAND and CHROMANCE represents an interesting crossover between K-pop and electronic dance music. The single, which has garnered over 1.5 million views on YouTube, features a unique blend of both artists' styles. Initially released as a digital single, the track's success demonstrates how MOMOLAND's music has evolved since their debut.

The Origins of 'Wrap Me In Plastic'

Before becoming a MOMOLAND hit, "Wrap Me In Plastic" originated with electronic dance music producer CHROMANCE. The track was originally released in 2017 but remained relatively obscure. The song's journey from underground EDM track to global phenomenon represents an unusual path to stardom.

How CHROMANCE created the original version

CHROMANCE and Mark Layton crafted "Wrap Me in Plastic" as an electronic dance track that largely flew under the radar upon its initial 2017 release. The original version featured the now-familiar catchy hook but lacked the worldwide audience it would eventually find. Some sources indicate a later formal release in November 2019, but the song remained relatively unknown until TikTok users discovered it in 2020.

Why MOMOLAND joined the collaboration

The unexpected TikTok resurgence of "Wrap Me in Plastic" in 2020 created the perfect opportunity for a collaboration. CHROMANCE announced a partnership with MOMOLAND to create a Korean version of the suddenly popular track. This move excited both TikTok users and K-pop fans alike, who eagerly anticipated how the girl group would transform the electronic hit.

Release timeline and initial reception

The official MOMOLAND and CHROMANCE collaboration dropped on February 5, 2021. This new version maintained the original's structure while incorporating Korean lyrics alongside the English ones. The reception proved mixed—while many celebrated the collaboration between EDM and K-pop, others questioned the production choices. Nevertheless, the partnership successfully capitalized on the song's growing viral status across social platforms.

The Viral Explosion on Social Media

The TikTok ecosystem became the perfect launchpad for "Wrap Me In Plastic," transforming the collaboration into a global phenomenon.

TikTok trends and dance challenges

Snippets from both versions of the track were used in an impressive 7 million TikTok videos combined. The catchy beat attracted even the platform's biggest stars, including @charlidamelio and @bellapoarch. Notably, influential creator @imjoeyreed initiated a viral dance trend that gained such momentum that even Jason Derulo participated. Dance tutorials emerged across YouTube, with creators offering step-by-step breakdowns of the moves. The release coincided with a new #WrapMeInMomoland challenge that gained significant attention.

Fan-made content and remixes

Beyond dance videos, creative fans produced numerous remixes across platforms like SoundCloud, adding their unique touches to the song. One remixer combined K-pop with dancehall elements, garnering positive feedback such as "amazing groove" and "cute vocals". This community engagement helped extend the song's lifespan as new interpretations continuously refreshed interest.

How the song gained global traction

The viral momentum wasn't limited to Western platforms. On Chinese platform Douyin, the #WrapMeInPlastic hashtag accumulated over 100 million views. MOMOLAND was perfectly positioned for this collaboration, having previously succeeded with "Baam!" which made the most of social media dance trends. The song's minimal production and gimmicky chorus with quirky lyrics made it inherently "TikTok-able".

Breaking Down the Lyrics and Meaning

The lyrics of "momoland wrap me in plastic" have sparked diverse interpretations since the song's release. Unlike typical K-pop fare, this collaboration features provocative imagery that invites deeper analysis.

What does 'wrap me in plastic' really mean?

The central phrase "wrap me in plastic and make me shine" has generated multiple interpretations. Primarily, some critics view it as a commentary on objectification, where the protagonist surrenders agency in a relationship. Alternatively, one American listener perceived a technological metaphor - likening the plastic wrapping to purchasing a smart device, with references to "master" suggesting a Siri or Alexa-like virtual assistant. Yet another interpretation suggests the song parodies online personas created for financial gain, where performers "talk the fantasy BS" while actually mocking their audience.

Symbolism in the dollhouse metaphor

The dollhouse imagery reinforces themes of control and design. Lines like "We can make a dollhouse, follow your design" coupled with "I can call you master, you can call me mine" establish a power dynamic. Consequently, the repeated references to building objects (dollhouse, dog) symbolize constructing an idealized fantasy relationship. The metaphor extends through robotic movements in the video, emphasizing the manufactured nature of this relationship.

Korean and English lyric integration

The collaboration smoothly integrates Korean lyrics alongside English ones. In particular, Korean phrases like "kkoch-i dwae julge" ("I'll be your flower") and "neoman bol su issge" ("So that only you can see") complement English sections. Furthermore, Hyebin delivers key hook lines while background vocals echo "wrap me in plastic".

Notable lyric trivia: the 'mind' typo

Interestingly, the official lyrics contain a discrepancy noted by fans. According to some lyric sites, certain backing vocals should appear in gray color to indicate they're not sung by all members. Additionally, the ad-lib section features variations in how "wrap, wrap, wrap me in" is patterned throughout different performances.

Behind the Scenes of the Music Video

The visual production of "Wrap Me In Plastic" perfectly complements the song's catchy hook with vibrant aesthetics and strategic styling choices.

Visual themes and choreography

MOMOLAND's collaboration with CHROMANCE yielded two distinct video releases: an official video on MLD Entertainment's YouTube channel featuring both artists and a full choreography video on B1-owned YouTube channel Marvellous. Both videos showcase a new TikTok dance that became part of the #WrapMeInMomoland challenge. Throughout the video, the members transform into internet influencers living in a Hype House-like setup, creating digital content for viewers. CHROMANCE appears in video pop-ups, instructing the members on dance moves.

Production design and aesthetic choices

The production embraces a dollhouse metaphor with members surrounded by phones and live streaming their confinement. Essentially, the set features bright, super feminine elements alongside retro television screens displaying broadcasted versions of the members. The colorful setting includes plushies and inflatables, creating a voyeuristic bubble.

MOMOLAND's performance and styling

The music video presents three main group looks. First, a pastel-themed cowgirl aesthetic with feathers and star jeans. Second, an outfit inspired by late 90s and early 00s fashion. Finally, a futuristic look with puffy vests and boots. Alongside their distinctive styling, members exhibit robotic movements and e-girl vibes, completing the technological personal assistant aesthetic some viewers perceived.