IVE Wonyoung’s Fan Base Triggers Heated Reactions Over Disapproval Of “Provocative” Outfit

Which side are you on?
News
Bunnie Moreau
Bunnie Moreau

IVE‘s Wonyoung recently made headlines for her outfit during the Coupang Play Series Halftime Show.

GxGq69rWQAAeTkG
IVE’s Wonyoung | MK Sports

Her outfit was constructed from a jersey, but quickly received flack from fans who believed she was too exposed for the setting.

GxHAwyiaUAERlA9
| @Yuao_wy/Twitter

It soon came out that the members requested their individual outfits themselves. However, some fans were still not convinced.

GxGk_kGWoAA0o7L
| X Sports News

A large Chinese fanbase for Wonyoung wrote a letter for Starship Entertainment, urging them to dress Wonyoung more comfortably and appropriately.

As a young female idol not yet 21 years old, Jang Wonyoung has always been a role model for many girls—symbolizing confidence, self-respect, and a healthy image.

However, at a recent brand event for a new product launch, the outfit worn by Starship’s Jang Wonyoung sparked strong reactions from fans.

The dress, which clung tightly to her body and was quite revealing, did not seem appropriate for such a natural, refreshing setting.
While other members wore comfortable and relaxed outfits suitable for the concept of a sports-related event, Jang Wonyoung alone wore a tight, short, and low-cut dress that limited movement and did not align with the overall atmosphere of the concert-like showcase.

Since turning 20, the “sexy” image that fans have long dreaded seems to be increasingly emphasized in her styling.

Wonyoung, who values her own comfort and prefers natural and easygoing looks, has consistently presented a style that fits her taste. Why, then, is she being pushed into a “sexy” image that doesn’t suit her?

The purpose of stage outfits is to allow idols to perform more comfortably and confidently on stage—not to restrict their movement or to be used merely as a marketing tool.
Moreover, Starship and its stylists must not prioritize marketing goals over Jang Wonyoung’s comfort and autonomy.

For the past 7 years, Jang Wonyoung has built her image of confidence, self-management, and professionalism entirely through her own efforts.
She has shown versatility through various activities, successfully digesting a range of styles, and steadily developing a distinct image as a performer.

What makes her style so noteworthy is not just her physical appearance, but her unique charm and natural confidence. That’s why the label of “sexy” is neither necessary nor fitting for her—she’s already one of the most radiant young female idols in South Korea.

We believe this to be true.

As brand deals and solo activities increase, we also believe that Starship will respect Jang Wonyoung’s individual opinions and long-term career.

But we are continuing to witness otherwise.
Despite the company’s claims of considerate planning, it is still apparent that more attention is paid to Jang Wonyoung’s styling than to that of other members.
And while her star image is exploited, fans’ voices are ignored, and her well-being is being overlooked.

We hope Jang Wonyoung can live her life in a way that is true to herself.
That she won’t be hurt, used for noise marketing, or made a tool for controversy.
We hope she can exist as someone who is always loved, protected, and respected—just as she is.

🔺We earnestly ask Starship:

Please respect the clothing style Wonyoung prefers.
Please consider how her daily schedules and long working hours affect her body.
Please stop dressing members in drastically different styles.
Please don’t continue to push a “sexy” concept onto a young artist.
Provide her with styling that is more considerate, healthy, and comfortable.

— @Jangwonyoung_CN/Twitter

The post triggered reactions from Korean netizens who felt that overseas fans had taken it too far.

  • “Wasn’t the outfit alteration something the member herself wanted?”
  • “Stop blaming the stylist already…”
  • “The stylist doesn’t even have fans who’ll release a statement for them, damn.”
  • “Is this really something that needs to get this out of hand…?”
  • “This is honestly hilarious… a fandom denying their favorite’s personal style.”
  • “Is this really worth all this?”
  • “I haven’t written a single post or comment about IVE today, but watching all this unfold… this place is seriously losing it.”
Screenshot 2025-07-30 160839
| theqoo

There were also negative reactions on X from fans who disagreed with the letter and believe Wonyoung is entitled to wear whatever she wants.

IVE

IVE Wonyoung’s Actions At Airport Trigger Major Heartbreak

IVE’s Jang Wonyoung Shows Off Her “Fairy-Like Visuals”

IVE Jang Wonyoung’s Goddess-Like Visuals Go Viral

IVE’s Leeseo Bids Farewell To SBS “Inkigayo”

See more IVE

Next Page
Scroll to top