LE SSERAFIM’s new remix is getting a lot of attention fast. The group’s updated version of “BOOMPALA” with Punjabi star Guru Randhawa has triggered immediate debate online. The Le Sserafim Boompala controversy is now spreading to both K-pop and Indian pop fans.
The collaboration was first described as a major event bringing two different cultures together. The collaboration between LE SSERAFIM and Guru Randhawa was not announced early; it was a surprise release. But when “BOOMPALA” came out in June, fans had very different opinions about it.
Some listeners enjoyed every part and the effort, but others felt the styles didn’t blend well together. While the collaboration aims to bridge the gap between K-pop and Punjabi pop, fans are divided, leaving many wondering why they decided to work together in the first place. A major reason for the backlash is the choice of Guru Randhawa, who previously faced heavy criticism for his music video “Azul.”
Isnt this the guy who sexualised and portrayed a school girl character as a love interest in his MV? What is hybe doing?
— Kan 🐇 (@kan1sneo) June 6, 2026
pic.twitter.com/q6UW4Ob8f9 https://t.co/oGj9VRwlOH
The video caused a huge backlash, with viewers accusing it of sexualizing schoolgirls and including inappropriate imagery.
the exact day hybe decided to collab with him i guess.
— al 🧸🦦🐶🐱🐹 (@minjigongjunim1) June 6, 2026
you wont see hybe stans outraged by this tho https://t.co/jx0gdEmGFV pic.twitter.com/JAq9UKfc9i
Many are questioning why Source Music would work with someone linked to such a controversy. K-pop fans are highly protective, and this decision has made them doubt the agency’s background checks and how well they align with their fans’ values.
Many fans have expressed disappointment with the music video. They specifically criticize the heavy use of AI-generated visuals and an overall “messy” concept. That criticism echoed reporting from outlets including Forbes and WION, which highlighted complaints over “namaste” references, yoga-inspired choreography, meditation poses, mudra-style hand gestures, and Hindu-associated imagery.
Despite the backlash, “BOOMPALA” has continued to post moderate results in South Korea and India, though it has reportedly underperformed compared to previous LE SSERAFIM releases.