How Was Kep1er Chaehyun’s “Ballet Dress Exposure”… Fans Asked, “Please Don’t Be Angry”

Kim Chae-hyun, a member of the group Kep1er, stepped in to calm the recent debate over the ballet outfit she wore during a content shoot through a direct message on a fan communication platform.

She explained the background behind her clothing choice in response to fans' concerns about the revealing ballet outfit and asked them to refrain from criticizing the staff.

On the 2nd, Kep1er's official YouTube channel uploaded a video titled "Princesses, Take Your Steps | Kep1er Ballet Company." The video showed Kim Chae-hyun taking a ballet class with members Choi Yu-jin and Xiaoting.

The issue was the pink leotard outfit worn by Kim Chae-hyun. Compared with the other members' outfits, its neckline dipped much lower, leading to criticism that it was somewhat too revealing while performing ballet movements.

Immediately after the video was released, fans expressed strong criticism over the agency's poor outfit preparation. Complaints such as, "Did they really need to dress her in something revealing for a sports content piece that emphasizes mobility?" and "Who is the coordinator?" spread the controversy further. In response, Kim Chae-hyun posted an explanation herself on a fan communication platform.

She said, "I chose that outfit myself," and explained that "when I think of ballet, the color pink comes to mind, so I wanted to wear something pretty." She added, "I thought people would like it, but I was surprised because it turned out differently than I expected." She continued, "I also wanted to wear something pretty. From now on, I'll coordinate better before wearing it. Please don't get too angry," soothing fans.

Meanwhile, in the entertainment world, many stars such as Suzy, Park Ji-hyun, and Son Na-eun have recently revealed their so-called "hobby ballerina" activities, enjoying ballet through social media (SNS), and public interest in ballet has risen. Along with posture correction and weight-loss benefits, the fun of dressing in ballet attire to match one's taste has made it popular mainly among women in their 20s and 30s.

This trend has also led to the rise of "balletcore" fashion, which incorporates ballet elements into everyday clothing. Pairing leotards with tights and warmers, or flats reminiscent of pointe shoes and ribbon decorations, remains popular among younger consumers.

Reporter Kang Kyung-min