Kep1er's Kim Chaehyun Ballet Outfit Controversy

Kep1er member Kim Chaehyun explained the controversy over the ballet outfit she wore in a YouTube video, stating, "I chose this outfit myself." In a video released on Kep1er's official YouTube channel on the 2nd, Kim Chaehyun wore a ballet outfit with a deeply cut neckline, unlike the other members.

Regarding this video, some fans pointed out that "the exposure was excessive during the ballet movements," calling it provocative and criticizing the stylist, demanding the video be edited. On the other hand, opinions emerged stating, "​As Kim Chaehyun is an adult in her 20s, she has the freedom to choose her outfits according to her own will," and "​If ballet attire is considered revealing, then outfits from Waterbomb festivals or girl group performances should have been problematic long ago."

As the controversy grew, Kim Chaehyun directly explained on a fan communication platform, "I chose this outfit myself." She added, "​I wanted to wear a pretty outfit that matched the image of ballet, but I was surprised by the unexpected reaction." Furthermore, she stated, "​I fully understand the fans' concerns, but I also had a desire to wear a pretty outfit," and "​In the future, I will carefully coordinate and wear outfits while reflecting the fans' opinions."

Recently, as ballet has gained popularity among the MZ generation, interest in ballet attire has also increased. On social media, there are a growing number of celebrities who showcase ballet outfits, with "hobby ballet learners" sharing their experiences. Suzy also consistently posted about her ballet hobby, which became a hot topic.

Sales of ballet attire are also on the rise. According to the fashion platform Zigzag, searches for 'ballet' in November last year increased by more than three times compared to the same month the previous year, with approximately 80% of searching customers being in their 20s and 30s. Among specific items, the transaction value for 'leotards' surged by over 32 times, and sales of 'ballet shorts,' 'ballet warmers,' and 'ballet outfits' also increased significantly. The industry predicts that sales of ballet attire will continue to grow, driven by the popularity of ballet.