(G)I-DLE Deletes Content Amid “Sexualization” Controversy

Previously, (G)I-DLE faced backlash for their styling.

On July 22, it was reported that (G)I-DLE faced criticism over using a red cross on their outfit as they promoted their recent comeback with “Klaxon.”

According to the report, (G)I-DLE is facing allegations of sexualizing an outfit with a red cross on it during their July 19 performance on Music Bank. For context, the Red Cross is “a global humanitarian network of 80 million people that helps those facing disaster, conflict, and health and social challenges.” The members wore sexy lifeguard-themed outfits that bore the Red Cross emblem.

Netizens alleged that (G)I-DLE’s recent outfits violated Korean law. The report reveals that according to the law, anyone who uses the Red Cross logo without permission from the international foundation can be fined up to ₩10.0 million KRW (about $7,200 USD). The report also revealed that a representative of the Korean Red Cross confirmed that they had not been contacted by (G)I-DLE’s representatives but would contact Cube Entertainment.

We have never received a request for permission to use the red cross. I think they did so without knowing the law. If anyone knowingly and habitually use the Red Cross logo, they are subject to a fine. After we confirm the facts, we will be reaching out to the group’s label to prevent this from occurring.

— Korean Red Cross

Netizens also found issues with the (G)I-DLE members styled in outfits that featured the Red Cross logo. They saw it as sexualizing a professional uniform.

• “This group is constantly at the center of similar controversies. Keep this up and they will destroy their image.”
• “That mark is famous. Seems like they didn’t do their research before using it.”
• “It’s legendary that no one thought to check before they went up on stage, lol.”
• “They never practice what they preach.”
• “‘Tomboy’ and ‘Nxde’ had similar controversies but I supported them because the message seemed good, but I’m getting more and more disappointed.”
• “They are literally sexualizing a professional uniform.”

Shortly after, Cube Entertainment issued an official statement via social media. The company apologized and revealed they had contacted the Korean Red Cross.

안녕하세요,
큐브엔터테인먼트입니다.
7월 19일 방송된 KBS 2TV '뮤직뱅크' (여자)아이들의 '클락션 (Klaxon)' 무대 의상 관련해 전달드립니다.

해당 무대 의상에 문제가 있던 점을 인지하고
대한적십자사와 연락하여 사과 후 재발 방지 및 후속 조치에 대해 적극적으로 협의하고 있습니다.

당사는…

— CUBE ENTERTAINMENT (@cubeunited) July 22, 2024

Hello,
This is Cube Entertainment.
Regarding the costume worn by (G)I-DLE during the ‘Klaxon’ stage on KBS 2TV’s ‘Music Bank’ on July 19th, we would like to address the following:

We are aware of issues with the costumes for this stage and have contacted the Korean Red Cross to apologize and actively discuss measures to prevent recurrence and follow-up actions.

We sincerely apologize once again to all parties who were inconvenienced by this incident.

We genuinely appreciate the continued interest and support from fans for (G)I-DLE.

Thank you.

— Cube Entertainment

Now, all content featuring the members dressed in the controversial outfits appears to have been removed from the group’s official social media accounts. On the other hand, you can still find some videos online.

Unfortunately, the deletion of content includes any dance challenges that featured other idols if the (G)I-DLE members were dressed in the Red Cross logo. Naturally, some fans are disappointed.

Haechan’s challenge with gidle is now deleted from all platforms due to unauthorized use of the Red Cross in the outfits 😕 pic.twitter.com/cAafjcTHy0

— ʕ•Ⱉ•ʔ (@HCbodyguard) July 24, 2024

Read more below.

(G)I-DLE Facing Fierce Backlash Over Alleged Sexualization During Latest Performance