Shin Ji-won sparks debate over bold dress at film premiere

Shin Ji-won, an actress formerly of the girl group Berry Good, has become a hot topic online due to her unique fashion choice. While her transformed aura caught the eyes of the public, who are more familiar with her former stage name Jo Hyun, some netizens reacted to how her lower abdomen appeared prominent due to the fit of her outfit.

On the 4th, videos showing Shin Ji-won attending the VIP premiere of the film "Karlovy Vary" spread across various SNS platforms. Shin Ji-won participated in the stage greetings alongside fellow actors, and the most eye-catching element of the day was her tight-fitting, burgundy-colored ribbed knit long dress.

The dress featured a cross-shaped V-neck design and a material that clearly revealed her silhouette. In particular, depending on the camera angle and how the garment was worn, a specific area of her lower abdomen appeared prominent, leading to online reactions regarding the "bulge" caused by the fit. Shin Ji-won was also captured appearing to be conscious of the area, as she held both hands together in front of her to cover it.

However, there is no basis to conclude that this was due to an actual physical abnormality or a clothing defect. Tight-fitting knit materials can change silhouette depending on movement, underwear, or the way the garment is worn. Ultimately, the core of the discussion lay in the bold styling chosen by Shin Ji-won herself.

The reason this appearance garnered even more attention is that Shin Ji-won is continuing her career as an actress under a different name and identity than in the past. She debuted in the entertainment industry in 2016 as Jo Hyun, a member of the girl group Berry Good. During her group activities, she drew attention with an image centered on outstanding visuals and healthy charm, later expanding her reach through variety shows and advertisements.

Berry Good officially concluded its activities in 2021, and after pursuing solo activities, Shin Ji-won began her full transition into acting in 2023 by changing her stage name to her real name, Shin Ji-won. This move was interpreted as more than a simple name change, but as an effort to shed her idol image and rebuild her identity as an actor.

Her appearance in "Karlovy Vary" is part of her ongoing journey as an actress. Directed by Yongseok Lee, this comedy film features Shin Ji-won alongside Oh Ji-ho and Lee Je-yeon. With the release scheduled for the 9th, interest in the film is rising through VIP premieres and stage greetings.

For actors who were once idols, styling carries more meaning than mere external decoration. While the team's concept and the image built by the agency were important during group activities, after transitioning to acting, the character in a work and the individual's image are more directly connected. Shin Ji-won is currently in the stage of creating a new brand as "Actress Shin Ji-won," moving beyond the public image imprinted on her under the name Jo Hyun.

In particular, since changing her stage name to her real name, there is a consistent sense of her desire to be evaluated by her works and acting rather than by mere buzz. In that sense, her fashion at this premiere can be seen as an active attempt to try a style that suits her, rather than a pursuit of exposure.

Having expanded her scope of activity from the idol Jo Hyun to the current actress Shin Ji-won, attention is focused on what kind of works and characters she will use to establish her unique acting style in the future.