Actor Rowoon has finally addressed the buzz surrounding his recent underwear photoshoot, which went viral for an unexpected reason—visible underarm hair. The ad, part of a global campaign, sparked heated debates online with reactions ranging from applause for body positivity to critiques on aesthetic choices.
In an interview with Xportsnews on October 15, Rowoon sat down to discuss his role in the Disney+ series “THE MURKY STREAM” but also candidly spoke about the controversial ad.
“I didn’t expect it to become such a hot topic. Since this is a profession where we’re seen, I guess it’s just something I have to accept now,” he said.
The photos, which showcased Rowoon’s lean, wild physique, drew attention not only for the lack of airbrushing but for his choice not to shave his underarm hair—something rarely seen in K-pop or K-drama promotional material. Many praised the decision as refreshing, natural, and even progressive, while others expressed discomfort, sparking what some netizens called “a hygiene debate out of nowhere.“
Rowoon, however, clarified that the look was intentional.
“I wanted it to feel raw, like a stray cat. Not a perfectly sculpted body, but something wild and alive. After I showed my physique to the director, they said, ‘You look beautiful.’ So I went and ate two hamburgers. They even told me that having perfect abs made it look less realistic,” he explained.
Netizens have responded with mixed reactions. While fans appreciated the “real man” image, some argued that the look felt “unrefined” or “too raw for a brand campaign.” Yet others defended Rowoon’s bold concept, calling it “a step forward in redefining male beauty standards.”
This discussion also reflects a broader shift in the Korean entertainment industry’s embrace of natural aesthetics. As more stars experiment with less-polished images, public perception continues to evolve—though clearly, not without controversy.
Sources: Daum
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