Fashion can be a problem during the presidential election in Korea that might cause celebrities to be criticized

During the presidential election season, celebrities’ fashion is also considered a problem. 

If stars go to the polling palace wearing blue or red clothes, they can be criticized for hinting at political issues. Actions that imply the symbols of power parties, such as the V-sign, are also not encouraged. Wearing black and white clothes ad quietly visiting the polluting place is considered the best way.

However, many celebrities have been in trouble for not following the general model. Lots of controversies broke out during the presidential election’s pre-voting held for 2 days, from March 4th to March 5th.

Kim Hee-chul wore red slippers at the polling place

Singer-broadcaster Kim Hee-chul was criticized for appearing at the pre-voting booth of the presidential election on March 4th while wearing red slippers.

He dressed up in comfortable clothes. However, many netizens interpreted his red slippers and pink mask as a way to show support for Yoon Seok-yeol, a presidential candidate. Before leaving the polling place, Kim Hee-chul even made a V-sign in front of the camera, which is also considered a political message.

Amidst the public criticism against Kim Hee-chul, his fans pointed out that the artists often wore red and he even appeared in an “all red” outfit on a broadcast in the past. Moreover, Kim Hee-chul has repeated, “I have no intention in revealing my political opinion”. In April of last year, “I’m a celebrity, so it’s better to just quietly vote for someone”.

5 years ago, BTS V was also embroiled in a political controversy

BTS V was also involved in a similar controversy. On May 9th, 2017, during the 19th presidential election, V revealed his political opinion by wearing a red tie when appearing at the polling place, causing a huge netizens’ rage. V’s favorite V-sign pose was considered controversial on that day.

A number of articles were posted on online communities and SNS sites, saying that his fashion hinted at his support for The Liberty Korea Party. Some people pointed out his hometown Daegu as evidence.

However, that red tie was frequently worn by V and it actually had no specific meaning.

Some stars showed their sense of humor in relation to ‘presidential election voting’ fashion

Rapper SuperB posted a photo of him wearing a red hat and top but blue pants and shoes on the 5th. He also marked number 1 on his one hand and number 2 on the other, showing his neutral opinion in the voting. Broadcaster Jang Sung-kyu also showed off his wit by wearing a blue mask, and a yellow cardigan while taking a proof show in front of a polling place in Seoul. Meanwhile, comedian Yoo Se-yoon posted the photo of him holding drinks of various colors, such as blue, red, yellow, green and oranges, after voting with his friends.