EXO M vs. EXO K Showdown (Unfair)

Unfair - EXO

I know, I know. I wrote about “Unfair” in my last Kaja Kaja post, but I had to write about it again! I usually don’t compare the lyrics of the Chinese and Korean versions of EXO songs, but I did it for this song. Well, it’s cuz this song is still my jam. It’s still on repeat 20 million times a day. 

Let’s compare the sound first. The Korean version wins in my book for the sound. It’s more upbeat and the words seem to flow better. This version is more playful, while the Chinese version is a bit toned down and is more like a thought process. I might just be use to hearing Chinese music with solemn and/or sad themes. I can’t seem to fit Chinese into other genres of music. 

Now, let’s go to the lyrics (my favorite part). In my analysis, I said the lyrics painted a story of a guy interested in a woman with a boyfriend. It’s unfair that the girl can’t be his because a relationship is in the way. That’s so scandalous right? But the Chinese version paints a different story and it may explain why the feel of the song is different. But the Chinese version illustrates a different story and it may explain why the feel of the song is different. The EXO-M version depicts a man unsatisfied with his current situation. He’s in love with a girl but he can’t be with her because she’s a God-given woman who’s perfect. I, without a doubt, prefer the Chinese version. 

I like the Chinese version so much better because I can’t handle the stress of knowing that my relationship is forbidden and I could be punished any second. I prefer the bittersweet feeling of forbidden love that requires me to prove myself. I kept thinking throughout the EXO-M version, “You are worthy, EXO! You’re also perfect! Just prove it to the girl!” But, not really. Cuz, I need to prepare my heart for my bias to be in a relationship. 

The difference between the Chinese and Korean versions makes me wonder if the lyrics of all the other songs paint different pictures as well. Are they depicting completely different stories like both “Unfair”s? I know it would be challenging to find the right words for each language for both songs. Though, I wouldn't think they would convey different feelings. I guess that’s the difficulty that comes with translating songs. 

Let us know which you version you prefer? Or do you like both versions? 

-Kristine 

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