The Hidden Story Behind KISS OF LIFE's 'Sticky' Dance Moves [Exclusive Details]

KISS OF LIFE captivated the K-pop world with their hit single "Sticky," which has amassed over 138 million YouTube views since its July 1, 2024 release. Following the success of their previous single "Midas Touch," the group took a refreshing new direction that quickly earned them the title of "Hot Summer Queen" after achieving first place on the "Show Champion" music program.

Notably, the KISS OF LIFE members embraced an Afrobeat rhythm for "Sticky," creating a stark contrast to their previous hip-hop and retro-inspired releases. The KISS OF LIFE group showcased this new concept through a uniquely edited one-shot music video, filmed in a park and movie theater setting. Julie, one of the KISS OF LIFE Kpop stars, described the "Sticky" life concept as "refreshing" with a focus on projecting a brighter, happier image compared to their earlier intense persona. The choreography for "Sticky" kiss perfectly complements this summer comeback strategy, designed to capture the vibrant essence of the season through both sound and movement.

How the 'Sticky' choreography came to life

Behind every captivating dance performance lies a creative process that merges vision with execution. The choreography for "Sticky" represents a fusion of influences that has become a signature element of kiss of life's artistic identity.

The creative team behind the moves

The development of kiss of life's distinctive choreography happens through collaborative efforts led by creative director Lee Hae-in, who was instrumental in forming the group. In fact, Julie explained that from their debut, the kiss of life members have been actively involved in shaping their performances alongside their creative team. This collaboration thrives through open communication channels with their company, which values and respects their artistic input.

Belle, who co-wrote "Get Loud" with their in-house producer and Taneisha Jackson (a top-liner known for working with Doja Cat), demonstrates the group's commitment to creative involvement. "I was a little nervous, but I think we did it really well," Belle shared about her writing experience, adding that the collaborative process yielded results that "fit our group so much."

Inspiration from Afrobeat and Latin rhythms

The choreography for "Sticky" draws inspiration from diverse musical traditions that align with the group's eclectic influences. Kiss of life kpop performances often incorporate elements reminiscent of the artists they admire, including Blackpink, 2NE1, BigBang, as well as Western artists like Ariana Grande, SZA, Rihanna, and Rosalía.

In particular, the sticky life concept embraces rhythmic elements from Afrobeats, which has been increasingly incorporated into K-pop choreography. This follows a trend seen across the industry, where groups integrate West African dance steps into their performances. Additionally, Latin influences appear throughout their repertoire, especially in tracks like "Get Loud," which Belle describes as infusing "Latin rhythms with a cha-cha flair, layered over a hip-hop beat."

Balancing freshness with K-pop precision

The sticky kiss choreography maintains the technical precision expected in K-pop while introducing fresh elements that set the group apart. This balance creates performances that feel simultaneously innovative yet accessible to their audience.

Despite occasional controversy surrounding certain dance moves in the domestic market, international audiences have overwhelmingly praised the choreography for its creativity and artistic merit. The group carefully crafts movements that showcase each member's strengths while advancing their overall concept—a strategy that has helped them establish a distinctive place in the competitive fifth-generation idol landscape.

The visual story told through movement

Beyond choreography and music, kiss of life crafted a visual narrative through their "Sticky" music video that resonated with audiences worldwide. The visual presentation became central to the song's success, earning both praise and discussion among fans.

One-shot music video and its impact

The music video for "Sticky" employed a distinctive one-shot editing technique, following the kiss of life members seamlessly through a park and into a nearby movie theater. This continuous flow created an immersive experience that highlighted the spontaneous, summery atmosphere they sought to convey. Accordingly, the uninterrupted visual journey allowed viewers to feel as though they were walking alongside the performers, enhancing the personal connection to the song's bright energy.

Dance as a narrative tool in 'Sticky'

Throughout the video, movement itself tells a story that complements the lyrics. Belle initiates the narrative by approaching a fountain, subsequently joined by other kiss of life group members who begin their choreography. Indeed, certain moments in the dance became focal points of the visual storytelling – particularly at the 0:34 mark where Natty's movements sparked discussions among viewers. Hence, the sticky kiss choreography serves not merely as decoration but as essential visual dialogue.

Moreover, Julie elaborated that the sticky life concept represented their interpretation of summer – showing both "the cool and refreshing side as well as the hot". This duality manifests through movement patterns that alternate between playful and confident expressions.

Fan interpretations and viral moments

Perhaps most intriguing is the music video's mysterious ending, where Natty appears dressed in camo pants with a cap (similar to her solo "Sugarcoat" video) and observes the four kiss of life kpop members. When questioned about this puzzling conclusion, Julie teased: "We can't say too much, but there is meaning to it, and I'm sure it's a big spoiler for something that's coming up. It's a secret!".

Interestingly, domestic and international audiences interpreted certain dance moments differently – what some Korean viewers found controversial, international fans celebrated as artistic expression.