(G)I-DLE Faces Controversy Over Unauthorized Use of ‘Red Cross Emblem’ in New Song Outfits
(G)I-DLE has found themselves at the center of controversy once again due to their stage outfits on a music broadcast.
On the 19th, (G)I-DLE performed their new song “Klaxon” on KBS’s “Music Bank.” On this day, the members wore tight sleeveless tops with the word “LIFEGUARD” written on them and short red shorts for their performance.
They accessorized with red bags, presumed to be emergency kits, worn around their waists, and added items like whistles and hats for emphasis.
The lifeguard concept, seemingly portrayed by the members, refers to those responsible for lifesaving and water safety at popular summer vacation spots.
Although the outfits were likely intended to evoke the summer beach theme in line with the concept of the new song, the excessively short outfits, revealing undergarments, and fashion reminiscent of a specific profession sparked controversy over sexual objectification and unauthorized use of the Red Cross emblem.
The mark used on (G)I-DLE’s outfits is officially prohibited from unauthorized use by the Korean Red Cross, which conducted a campaign in May to emphasize preventing unauthorized use of the Red Cross emblem.
According to the Korean Red Cross Act, unauthorized use of the Red Cross emblem can result in a fine of up to 10 million KRW or a penalty of up to 5 million KRW. Despite continued unauthorized use by hospitals and pharmacies, the Red Cross applied for trademarks for three types of Red Cross emblems last year for pharmaceuticals, medical devices (class 10), and hospitals and pharmacies (class 44) to prevent unauthorized use.
Netizens who came across the news responded sharply to (G)I-DLE’s styling team, saying, “What lifeguard goes on a rescue in those clothes?”, “The outfits are too provocative,” “What is with the coordination… Isn’t that unauthorized use of the Red Cross emblem?”, “The outfits are too uncomfortable,” and “Pay the fine~.”
According to MHN Sports, the Korean Red Cross stated, “There was no approval request from (G)I-DLE regarding the use of the Red Cross emblem,” and “After the issue is raised by the International Humanitarian Law Institute, which manages the emblem, the agency will submit a plan to prevent recurrence. However, since there was no intentional misuse, no fines or penalties will be imposed.”
Meanwhile, Cube Entertainment, (G)I-DLE’s agency, has not released any statement regarding the controversy.
