KIIRAS Combines Country with K-Pop for “KILL MA BO$$”

Photo: KIIRAS Official X

New girl group KIIRAS committed to the country genre in their debut song, “KILL MA BO$$.” As the first K-Pop artist under entertainment agency Leanbranding, KIIRAS is setting themselves apart by integrating their concept with country music. The group debuted with their single “KILL MA BO$$” on May 29, shortly before putting out their first EP. On June 9, they re-released “KILL MA BO$$” alongside its instrumental, a “real country” remix, and a new song called “ZILLER!” in an EP.

KIIRAS, named after a combination of the Korean word for “energy” (“ki”) with “rascal,” consists of members Lingling, Kurumi, Harin, Kylie, Doyeon, and Roah. Known for her appearance on I-LAND2: N/A last year, Lingling has also debuted as the first female Malaysian K-Pop idol through KIIRAS. The group’s music is produced by singer-songwriter SAAY, a contributor to songs by artists like aespa, TWICE, and The Boyz. However, KIIRAS’ music sounds far different from SAAY’s previous work, making their debut EP a new mark in K-Pop.

“KILL MA BO$$”

KIIRAS goes all-in on the country music genre in “KILL MA BO$$.” Usually when K-Pop groups represent elements of American country music, their songs tend not to reflect the whole theme in instrumentation, lyrics, and visuals; as the KIIRAS members try on cowboy hats in the “KILL MA BO$$” music video, the instrumental immediately makes the genre known. The amount of stringed instruments heard throughout—the banjo, the fiddle, and the acoustic guitar—gives this song its country flair.  

Conceptually, “KILL MA BO$$” takes inspiration from the Wild West. As the song says, KIIRAS arrives as a newcomer that attracts everyone’s attention with their “killer smile.” With the references of boot spurs and the reins on a horse, KIIRAS imagines riding across the “orange-hued wilderness.” The group even mimics drawing pistols in the song’s choreography. 

The EP also includes a “KILL MA BO$$ (Real Country Mix ver.)” for an enhanced country experience. It includes horse whinnies, puts more stress on the stringed elements, adds tambourine, and highlights some tasteful harmonica playing. Regardless of whether or not many K-Pop fans listen to country, KIIRAS has no doubt debuted with an unforgettable concept.  

“ZILLER!”   

Released on June 9, “ZILLER!” goes for a more mainstream concept than “KILL MA BO$$.” This EDM track focuses on the anxiety that comes with confessing romantic feelings through social media. The song’s Korean title, “질러” (Jilleo), the imperative form of the verb “to shout,” makes the action a command. The speaker keeps telling themselves they must profess their love out loud as it may be their only chance. 

Though “ZILLER!” presents a more common teen concept, the song still sells the “energetic rascals” image KIIRAS wants to portray. It contrasts “KILL MA BO$$” as the more conventional track with a dedicated dance break. For a company’s first K-Pop group, KIIRAS is doing a stellar job attracting interest.

Edited by Clark Royandoyan