When LE SSERAFIM released their latest single Different in both Japanese and English, the title stayed the same, but the message didn’t.
The Japanese version is a confident celebration of individuality and self-worth, in line with the group’s usual themes of empowerment. The English version is more flirtatious and playful. So… why the switch?
Two Versions, Two Messages
The original version is in line with LE SSERAFIM’s concept of being unapologetically bold, and self-assured. Lyrics like “I am different, only one in the world” and “I don’t need a ruler, I’m beautiful” reinforce a message of embracing your uniqueness and refusing to fit into anyone’s mold. The tone is an assertive declaration of identity without needing validation.
“Don’t need standards, I’m beautiful
Any moment, the way I imagined it in my heart
It’s clear to see
Just as I am listen
I remember something different
I got the sauce, can’t be compared
I am different, different, different
Only one in the world, only one”
For the English version, the tone is flirtier and more romantic. Instead of standing tall in your own skin, the focus shifts to catching someone’s attention. The bold self-love of the Japanese version is replaced with a softer, more playful charm.
“Gotta stay on for the ride of your life
Know what you want even when you’re tongue-tied
Hands in my back pocket by the end of the night
You could feel the vibe I’m on
Baby, don’t you take too long
I can feel the moment come
Don’t wait ’til it’s gone”
And while both versions technically live under the same title, they almost feel like two different songs.
The Business of Localization
SOURCE MUSIC and HYBE are adapting the lyrics to appeal to different markets. When K-pop or J-pop groups release English versions of songs, those aren’t usually one-to-one translations. They’re rewritten to appeal to the target audience’s cultural tastes, musical trends, and emotional preferences.
In Japan, pop lyrics often center on themes like personal growth, self-discovery, and authenticity. That’s why the original Different resonates so strongly with ideas of identity and empowerment.
In Western pop, listeners tend to expect something lighter or not depending on who’s popular at the moment. For LE SSERAFIM, I can see HYBE go for a flirtatious, playful vibe similar to 1-800-hot-n-fun. So instead of directly translating “I don’t need a ruler, I’m beautiful,” the English version veers toward something that sounds like it could sit next to a Dua Lipa or Sabrina Carpenter track on a playlist.
Not That There’s Anything Wrong With Being Different
Let me be clear: SOURCE MUSIC didn’t do anything wrong. Releasing two versions of a song that cater to different markets is a smart move, especially when you’re trying to build a global audience for your group. LE SSERAFIM’s international presence is growing fast, and Different is clearly part of a larger effort to establish their brand across borders.
It would have been nice to see some consistency between the two versions. But international FEARNOTS seem to love both versions and that’s all that matters. Here’s to Different being another hit for the girls!
