The music video by Stray Kids is far more than a playful B-side visual; it is a high-energy, defiant anthem designed as a direct response to their critics. Released in September 2021 as part of their second full album, NOEASY , the video serves as a sarcastic "thank you" to haters who have mocked their experimental sound. A Masterclass in Sarcastic Defiance
The music video, described as having a "mala taste" aesthetic, uses chaotic and colorful imagery to reflect the group's "noisy" identity.
The core of "CHEESE" lies in its lyrical and visual confrontation with "antis" (haters). The song uses "Cheese" as a double meaning: both as the phrase said when smiling for a camera and as a metaphor for something "funny" or "cheesy". Stray Kids "CHEESE" Video
: From Hyunjin’s car losing its wheels to Lee Know riding a "baby bike," the video embraces the very "absurdity" that critics often use to belittle them, turning it into a badge of honor.
: The setting, filled with graffiti-laden backdrops and neon lights, mirrors the track's rebellious energy. The music video by Stray Kids is far
: Fans and critics have interpreted the mention of various cheeses (parmesan, cheddar, blue cheese) followed by "freeze" as a jab at haters being "lactose intolerant"—meaning they simply can't "digest" or handle Stray Kids' unique flavor of music. Visual Symbolism & Style
: The lyrics directly reference past criticisms of their music. For example, they mock people who laughed at the "DU DU DU" chorus of "God's Menu" and the intense hook of "Side Effects". The core of "CHEESE" lies in its lyrical
: One of the most discussed "deep" details is the pre-chorus hand gesture. While the main lyrics describe folding fingers to make a thumbs-up, Han’s background ad-libs change the order so that the final gesture implied is actually a middle finger—a subtle "f-you" hidden in plain sight.