Song Ji-hyo faces backlash over casual hair styling

Actress Song Ji-hyo has once again found herself at the center of controversy regarding her hairstyle. While Song has long been beloved for her unpretentious personality and natural charm, her recent repetitive use of overly casual styling has led some fans to voice disappointment, claiming she "needs professional management."

The controversy began with content on Song's official YouTube channel. The video featured hair and makeup staff members who have worked with her for a long time, sharing candid stories regarding her style.

During the video, her hair stylist addressed the claw clip style that Song frequently wears, calling for a change. Looking at Song with her hair loosely gathered in a claw clip, the stylist candidly remarked, "I seriously want to burn those claw clips. Please don't wear them while working; save them for home." The stylist added, "I wish she would dress up a bit more when going out. Let's look pretty even when coming to YouTube shoots."

While Song's unique, natural style has been a long-standing favorite, the staff maintained that, given her profession, image management is necessary for official content and filming sets.

The makeup staff expressed a similar sentiment. Suggesting more polished styling, they said, "These days, people even apply makeup to their arms and legs. Since it's summer, I want to apply body makeup as well." However, Song drew laughter by jokingly refusing, saying, "The moment you apply tone-up cream to my neck, we are breaking up."

Ultimately, after continuous persuasion from the staff, Song promised, "I will try my best not to use claw clips." However, she also showed affection for her comfortable style, adding, "But please don't tell me to stop using claw clips altogether."

Nevertheless, in content released afterward, Song still appeared with her hair naturally swept up in a claw clip, prompting further disappointment from some fans.

The criticism has expanded beyond simple evaluations of her appearance to the issue of collaboration with her professional team. While some argue that Song's personal taste should be respected, others claim that a certain level of management is necessary since an actress's image is directly linked to the quality of the work and the efforts of the staff.

Some fans reacted with comments such as, "This is a profession where you move as a team, not alone, so the efforts of the staff should be considered," "It's not about asking her to dress up glamorously like an idol, but basic styling is necessary," and "Natural charm and a lack of management are two different things."

On the other hand, some defend her, suggesting that Song's unadorned appearance is precisely what built her long-standing fanbase. As the easygoing and honest image she has shown on variety shows has become her signature charm, some view excessive demands for style changes as a potential burden.

This is not the first time Song's style has caused a stir. In 2021, she drew significant attention by suddenly appearing with a short haircut. At that time, criticism followed regarding the styling, and misunderstandings spread that blamed the capabilities of her staff.

Regarding that incident, Song later explained it was her own choice, stating, "I drank alcohol and suddenly got impulsive and cut my hair with scissors." She also expressed apologies to the staff members who unintentionally received criticism.

For Song, who has been beloved since her debut, "unadorned naturalness" is clearly a core part of her character and a competitive edge. However, as an actress, the image presented to the public remains a vital asset. This controversy once again highlights the challenge of balancing "natural charm" with "professional self-management."