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Neng-tang-eh Sahng-uh

The "Shark in the Cold Bath" meme originated from the debut single of rapper Superbee, featuring Black Nut, released on October 26, 2015. The song gained wider public recognition when Superbee performed its intro during the semi-finals of 'Show Me The Money 5'. Its popularity as a meme has steadily continued alongside the song's success. Even recently, it has maintained its popularity, being used in dance challenges, cover videos, and game content on platforms like YouTube.

This meme stems from Superbee's childhood experience. As a child, he genuinely believed a shark lived in the cold bath section of the public bathhouse and harbored a pure fear that his "goh-chu" (penis) might be bitten. The song's lyrics capture this innocent childhood fear, contrasting it with the self-deprecating realization as an adult that there are no sharks in the cold bath, and he himself is scarier than a shark. Black Nut's featured part also includes criticism of the Korean hip-hop scene, likening it to politics. As a meme, "Shark in the Cold Bath" is primarily used to express quirky or irrational childhood fears, or unexpected threats encountered in surprising places. It also leverages the song's addictive chorus ("Baeksang-ari Cheongsang-ari" - White Shark, Blue Shark) to create humorous situations.

This meme gained popularity primarily among young people in their late teens to 30s who are familiar with 'Show Me The Money' and hip-hop music. In particular, the song's unique lyrics and catchy melody have contributed to people of various ages enjoying it by creating challenge and parody content. The active production of dance challenges and song cover videos on platforms like YouTube indicates it is widely consumed by both men and women interested in K-hip-hop culture and internet trends.

• When talking about quirky childhood imaginations or fears, people quote the song's lyrics, such as "I also believed a shark lived in the cold bath," to create a sense of empathy.
• It is used metaphorically to describe embarrassing or threatening situations encountered unexpectedly.
• It is used in dance challenges or short video content that utilize the song's addictive chorus ("White Shark, Blue Shark, I'm too scared to play, so I just stay still").
• It is sometimes used to describe specific situations or as a title in game or broadcast content. For example, there are game contents like "Avoiding the Shark in the Cold Bath."

The lyrics of "Shark in the Cold Bath" contain somewhat explicit or vulgar language. Black Nut's lyrics, in particular, include strong expressions and dissing content directed at specific individuals. Therefore, when using the meme, it is important to understand the context of the original song and use it appropriately for the situation and audience. Special caution is advised when using it in formal settings or in content aimed at children.