aespa Karina’s Addresses Controversial “Underwear” Outfits During Live Broadcast
aespa’s recent “Rich Man” teasers may have generated excitement among international fans, but the same images sparked heated backlash on Korean online communities. With conversations still ongoing, Karina personally addressed the issue during a live broadcast.
While chatting with fans on Weverse about the group’s latest AExis Line concert stages, Karina brought up the teaser photos and concept video. She reassured viewers that the provocative styling seen in the “BURST” teasers would not carry over into their upcoming music show appearances.
And the outfits we wore for the album jacket, we won’t wear them for music shows so don’t worry… Don’t worry… Sleep soundly.
— aespa’s Karina
Karina: And the outfits we wore for the album jacket, we won't wear them for music shows so don't worry… don't worry…sleep soundly
🥹🥹🥹 pic.twitter.com/ZmyQidgzTo
— 청바진스 (@foraespa1117) September 2, 2025
Karina’s comment comes after days of intense online debate. Korean netizens on TheQoo criticized the styling choices, with many describing the shorts and tops as overly revealing and reminiscent of early 2000s pop stars marketed toward male audiences. Some even argued that SM Entertainment seemed more focused on catering to male fans than aespa’s core fanbase.
By contrast, international MYs praised the daring, edgy looks, viewing them as bold and refreshing. Still, the divide in reactions highlighted how aespa’s global image can sometimes clash with domestic expectations.
Karina’s response helped calm worried fans who feared aespa would continue with the “underwear-style” concept for promotions. While teaser concepts often differ from final stages, hearing confirmation directly from Karina offered reassurance that their performances will reflect a different visual direction.
aespa 에스파 'Rich Man' BURST Film https://t.co/JQC4AUhG8h
aespa 에스파 The 6th Mini Album 〖Rich Man〗
➫ 2025.09.05 1PM (KST) / 12AM (EDT)🔗 https://t.co/8IVqBeE9vE
💿 https://t.co/DB0vYOf54U#aespa #æspa #에스파 #RichMan #aespaRichMan pic.twitter.com/yJAPTa2g2a— aespa (@aespa_official) August 31, 2025
With the group’s “Rich Man” comeback approaching, attention now turns to how aespa will balance bold visuals with the themes of wealth and luxury tied to the song’s title. Fans are eager to see how the stage styling compares to the divisive teaser images.
