In recent times, the Korean entertainment industry has been witnessing a bold fashion trend, with celebrities embracing what many are calling the “underwear” or “no pants” look.
This trend, characterized by daring exposure and scantily clad outfits, has sparked a heated debate across various platforms with netizens arguing for and against it.
| @jenaissante/Instagram
At the forefront of this backlash are LE SSERAFIM‘s Yunjin and actress Moon Ga Young, whose recent public appearances have set the internet ablaze with discussions and criticisms.
| @m_kayoung/Instagram
Yunjin, a member of the HYBE girl group LE SSERAFIM, recently made headlines with her “no pants” look during the promotions for their third mini-album, EASY. The teaser content leading up to the release and the showcase day itself highlighted Yunjin’s fashion choices, which gave the illusion of her not wearing any pants due to the extremely short length of her bottoms.
| HYBE LABELS/YouTube
This bold choice was further accentuated at the comeback showcase, where Yunjin appeared in an even more daring outfit, slightly lowering her short hot pants to reveal her underwear line. Despite facing criticisms for the uncomfortably tight look of the pants, Yunjin’s confident demeanor and unique style became a focal point of interest.
| MK Sports
Similarly, actress Moon Ga Young’s outfit at the Dolce & Gabbana F/W 2024 collection in Milan, caught the public’s eye. She wore a see-through dress over black lingerie, boldly revealing her figure.
| @dolcegabbana/Instagram
Despite Moon Ga Young’s attempt to add a seductive and elegant charm to her appearance, criticism arose from Korean netizens concerning the fit and comfort of the underboob-style top, with many finding it uncomfortable to look at.
| Elle Korea
The trend of wearing sheer outfits over shorts or layering long coats over what resembles underwear recalls the 1940s “Wonder Woman” fashion. This year not only singers but also actors — like Han So Hee and Moon Ga Young — confidently showcased the “no pants look” at fashion shows and official events.
Han So Hee | @xeesoxee/Instagram
The reactions to these fashion choices are mixed — with some praising the confidence and beauty of these celebrities, while others label the trend as “too much” and express regret over its provocativeness.
The concern isn’t limited to aesthetic preferences — there’s a growing apprehension about the influence of these trends on teenagers who idolize these celebrities. The fear is that the normalization of such revealing fashion could impact the physical and mental health of young fans.
| @jenaissante/Instagram
As discussions continue, it’s clear that the trend of scandalous “underwear” outfits has touched a nerve within the Korean entertainment industry and its audience. While some see it as a form of self-expression and empowerment, others worry about the potential implications for societal standards and the well-being of impressionable fans.
