Global girl group KATSEYE has always sparked discussion for their bold stage outfits. However, a recent styling choice reignited the debate of whether the group is being oversexualised.
Earlier this month, KATSEYE unveiled their new song, “Animal”, and the accompanying music video. Following the release, the group shared photos from the music video shoot, including photos of them in lingerie. The members, minus Yoonchae (윤채), wore the red and black lingerie for a scene in the music video, which featured an appearance from actress Demi Moore.
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While fans did comment on the outfit choice when the music video first came out, it wasn’t until KATSEYE shared a clearer image of them in lingerie that the public started debating. While there were many reasons for the criticism, most of the backlash was about the oversexualisation of the members.
Many fans criticised the group’s agency, HYBExGEFFEN, for repeatedly putting the members in revealing stage outfits. Some also lament the company’s decision to push a hyper-sexualised image for the group whose average age is 21. Yoonchae, the group’s youngest member, is often the only member exempted from the risqué styling.
There are also debates about whether the lingerie styling is appropriate given that the group has a large following of younger girls, most of whom are in their early teens. Some argued that it could negatively impact the underage fans and influence them to dress too mature for their age to follow KATSEYE’s stage and music video outfits.
On the opposite end, some fans defended the group and the styling choice, saying it matches the song’s overall theme. However, the members have repeatedly worn lingerie on stage, albeit redesigned to incorporate into the outfit. Some fans also said the public shouldn’t be too concerned about KATSEYE’s outfits, as long as the members are comfortable.
Of course, it’s worth noting that the criticism about the revealing outfits comes from good intentions. Hopefully, KATSEYE’s agency will consider fans’ concerns. What are your thoughts on this? In the meantime, check out the group’s outfit in the “Animal” music video below:
Sources: Twitter (1)(2), Instagram
