IVE’s Wonyoung Sparks Outrage Over Soccer Outfit, Fanbase Sends Ultimatum to Agency

Jang Wonyoung faced criticism for her short tight dress at a soccer event.
The revelation that IVE members chose their own outfits shifted blame from stylists to Wonyoung, fueling debates over her fashion preferences.
Wonyoung’s Chinese fanbase sent Starship an ultimatum, demanding more comfortable styling.

When IVE attended the Coupang Play Series Halftime Show on July 30, the group’s performance was overshadowed by a heated debate over Jang Wonyoung’s outfit. While the event was meant to celebrate the fusion of K-pop and sports, the focus quickly shifted to the youngest member’s fashion choice—a fitted blue dress with a short hemline, paired with denim shorts underneath.

Jang Wonyoung, known for her elegant and poised image, drew both admiration and criticism for her look. Many praised her visuals, with fans calling her "ethereal" and "stunning." However, others slammed the outfit as inappropriate for a sports event, arguing that it restricted her movement and seemed out of place compared to the more relaxed attire of her fellow members.

A viral tweet showing Jang Wonyoung kicking a ball intensified the backlash. Critics accused the stylist of negligence, with comments like:

"Why don’t they dress her properly?"

옷 똑바로 안입히니? https://t.co/P2OM3WskOe

— 도롱이 (@ungdeong22) July 30, 2025

"What the f* is that outfit—it’s basically just a towel thrown over her."

https://twitter.com/yoyo15098662201/status/1950534598401970678

"Even Ronaldo wouldn’t be able to score a goal if he had to play in clothes like that."

시발 호날두도 이런옷입고 공 차라하면 못넣겟다 https://t.co/t8zmXWh2PN

— julie ahn (@julieahhn) July 30, 2025

Some fans also expressed concern for Jang Wonyoung’s comfort, noting that she appeared uneasy during the performance.

"She’s so professional, but it couldn’t have been a comfortable experience standing there… who tf is her stylist?" one fan tweeted.

The controversy took a sharp turn when it was revealed that the IVE members had personally selected their outfits for the event. In fan interactions, Rei confirmed:

"Aren’t our uniforms super cute? We chose how we each wanted to reform the uniforms and asked the stylists to create it as such," Rei revealed.

This revelation shifted the discourse, with some netizens now directing criticism at Jang Wonyoung herself. Comments like "Seems like she just likes exposure" and "Was that what she liked? Got it" began circulating, sparking debates over whether the idol was being unfairly scrutinized for her personal style preferences.

Jang Wonyoung Fanbase’s Ultimatum to Starship Over Styling Concerns

The controversy surrounding Wonyoung’s outfit took a more serious turn when her major Chinese fanbase, JangWonyoung_CN, issued a formal letter to Starship Entertainment. The fans expressed deep concern over what they perceive as the company’s mishandling of the idol’s image, particularly regarding her recent styling choices.

"As a young female idol not yet 21 years old, Jang Wonyoung has always been a role model for many girls—symbolizing confidence, self-respect, and a healthy image."

However, they argued that her recent outfit at the soccer event—a tight, short dress that appeared restrictive—contradicted this image. Fans pointed out that while other IVE members wore sporty, comfortable attire fitting the event’s theme, Wonyoung’s outfit seemed out of place, raising questions about Starship’s priorities.

A key point of contention was the perceived shift in Wonyoung’s styling since she turned 20. They stressed that Wonyoung has historically favored natural, elegant looks and questioned why she was being pushed toward a more revealing concept.

"Since turning 20, the 'sexy' image that fans have long dreaded seems to be increasingly emphasized in her styling. Why, then, is she being pushed into a 'sexy' image that doesn’t suit her?" the letter demanded.

The fans also challenged Starship’s treatment of Wonyoung’s autonomy, stating. They accused the company of exploiting her image for attention while ignoring her comfort and long-term career.

Highlighting Wonyoung’s seven-year career, the letter praised her professionalism but criticized Starship for inconsistent styling. The fanbase concluded with a series of demands, urging the agency to:

"Respect the clothing style Wonyoung prefers."

"Provide her with styling that is more considerate, healthy, and comfortable."

"Stop pushing a 'sexy' concept onto a young artist."

The letter underscored their hope that Wonyoung would be "loved, protected, and respected—just as she is," rather than being used for controversy. While the fanbase’s intentions were protective, their ultimatum sparked debate—some agreed that Starship should reconsider its styling approach, while others argued that Wonyoung, as an adult, should have the freedom to choose her own fashion. As the discussion continues, the incident highlights the fine line between fan advocacy and overstepping boundaries in an idol’s career.

The fanbase’s letter triggered mixed reactions. While some agreed that Jang Wonyoung’s styling should be more considerate, others argued that the outrage was excessive. Korean netizens, in particular, questioned the intensity of the criticism:

"Wasn’t the outfit alteration something the member herself wanted?"

"This is honestly hilarious… a fandom denying their favorite’s personal style."

"Is this really worth all this?"

Meanwhile, international fans defended Jang Wonyoung’s right to wear what she chooses, with one tweeting: "Likes exposure? So what? She’s an adult and can dress how she wants."

This incident highlights the ongoing tension between idol autonomy and fan expectations. Jang Wonyoung, who has built her career on a polished, versatile image, now faces scrutiny not just from stylists but also from fans who feel entitled to dictate her fashion choices.

As of now, Jang Wonyoung from IVE has not publicly addressed the controversy. Whether Starship will adjust its approach remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the debate over how female idols should dress is far from over.

Source: X, Koreaboo