ILLIT member YUNAH addresses police-inspired outfit controversy at Seoul showcase

During a showcase for their fifth mini-album "Break Even" on the 26th in Seoul, ILLIT member YUNAH responded to criticisms regarding the group's "I'll Arrest You" stage outfits, which some claimed sexually objectified police officers during an encore tour performance on the 17th.

The group ILLIT has addressed the controversy surrounding the stage outfits for their new song "I'll Arrest You." Amid criticisms that the styling—which features outfits reminiscent of police uniforms combined with tight tops and short skirts—sexually objectified female police officers, member YUNAH expressed gratitude for the interest shown toward their performance. Rather than providing a specific explanation regarding the core of the controversy, the outfits, she focused on explaining the song's concept and future stages.

On the 26th, ILLIT (YUNAH, MINJU, MOKA, WONHEE, IROHA) held a showcase at the Blue Square Woori WON Banking Hall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, to celebrate the release of their fifth mini-album, "Break Even." During the event to showcase the new album, attention focused on how the members would respond to questions regarding the recent controversy over their performance attire.

The controversy arose when the stage for the new song "I'll Arrest You" was first revealed during the first day of the encore tour on the 17th. The members took the stage wearing outfits reminiscent of police uniforms. While the styling, which utilized tight tops and short skirts, left a strong visual impression, some critics raised concerns that the professional image of the police was being consumed sexually.

Police uniforms are subject to debate as they symbolize public authority and professional identity beyond mere stage costumes. In particular, when attire reminiscent of female police officers is combined with styling that emphasizes exposure and body shape, it can lead to debates regarding whether the method of expressing the concept is appropriate. This controversy appears to stem from differing opinions on how to handle visual effects on stage versus professional symbolism.

During the showcase, YUNAH mentioned the reactions following the first stage reveal. "We were really happy and even surprised because the interest was so intense after we performed 'I'll Arrest You' for the first time during the encore tour," she stated, adding, "I believe any kind of interest is something to be grateful for regarding the stage." She explained that she felt both surprise and gratitude for the high level of interest in the performance.

YUNAH went on to introduce the intended planning and concept of the stage. "As you can see from the music video, the 'I'll Arrest You' stage is based on a black agent concept," she explained. Despite the controversy regarding the outfits reminiscent of police uniforms, she noted that the fundamental direction the members intended to express was the "black agent" concept.

Stating that they plan to showcase various styles in future performances, YUNAH added, "We plan to show various styling in the remaining stages, so please continue to give us a lot of interest and love then." Rather than offering a direct apology for the controversy or announcing changes to the outfits, she requested anticipation and interest for the upcoming stages.

As the stage for ILLIT's new song draws attention, it remains to be seen whether this controversy will conclude as a simple debate over styling or expand into a discussion regarding the expression of professional symbols and female imagery in idol performances. While the interest in the stage itself is welcomed, the nature of the evaluations and debates that sparked that interest is a matter that cannot be easily overlooked.

Read the original (Korean)